High blood pressure during pregnancy is a common condition that affects many women and can pose risks to both mother and baby if not properly managed. It may develop before pregnancy or arise during the later stages and requires careful monitoring to prevent complications such as preeclampsia, premature birth, or low birth weight. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy and ensuring the best outcomes for both you and your baby.
What Is High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is when the force of blood against your artery walls is too high. During pregnancy, this can happen in a few ways:- Chronic Hypertension: High blood pressure that existed before pregnancy or diagnosed before 20 weeks.
- Gestational Hypertension: High blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy without signs of organ damage.
- Preeclampsia: A serious condition involving high blood pressure and damage to other organs, most often the liver and kidneys. It usually occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Why Monitoring Matters
Untreated high blood pressure can affect the health of both mother and baby. Dr. Leveno, emphasizes early detection and ongoing monitoring because:- It helps prevent progression to preeclampsia, which can be dangerous.
- It reduces the risk of premature delivery and complications.
- It allows personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Sometimes high blood pressure shows no symptoms, which is why regular prenatal visits are crucial. However, be aware of these warning signs and seek care immediately if you experience:- Severe headaches
- Vision changes (blurriness, flashing lights)
- Swelling in hands, feet, or face
- Sudden weight gain
- Upper abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
How Dr. Leveno’s Clinic Supports You
At Dr. Leveno’s OB-GYN clinic in Plano, we offer comprehensive care for women experiencing high blood pressure during pregnancy, including:- Personalized Treatment Plans: From lifestyle changes to medications, we tailor your care based on your health and pregnancy stage.
- Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring: We track your blood pressure closely to catch any changes early.
- Lab Testing and Ultrasounds: To monitor your baby’s growth and your organ function.
- Education and Support: We provide guidance on diet, exercise, and stress management to help you stay healthy.
- Coordination of Care: If needed, we work with specialists to ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby.
Practical Tips to Manage High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
In addition to medical care, here are steps you can take to support a healthy pregnancy:- Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt intake as recommended by your doctor.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain healthy blood flow.
- Exercise Regularly: Gentle activities like walking or prenatal yoga can improve circulation and reduce stress.
- Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or prenatal massage.
- Avoid Alcohol, Tobacco, and Caffeine: These can worsen hypertension and harm your baby.
- Get Enough Rest: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.
When Is Medication Needed?
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to control your blood pressure, Dr. Leveno may prescribe safe medications that help protect you and your baby. These medications are carefully chosen to balance effectiveness with safety during pregnancy.Why Choose Dr. Leveno’s Clinic in Plano?
Expectant mothers in Plano trust Dr. Leveno for his compassionate, evidence-based approach to managing high-risk pregnancies. Our clinic offers:
- A welcoming, patient-centered environment
- Experienced medical staff who specialize in pregnancy-related hypertension
- Advanced monitoring tools and diagnostic equipment
- Ongoing support to address your concerns and questions
Don’t Wait—Get the Care You Deserve
If you’re pregnant and have concerns about high blood pressure, don’t delay. Early care can make all the difference in your pregnancy journey. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Leveno, who practices out of Medical City Plano, to receive expert, personalized care tailored just for you.