A medical professional from Yale New Haven Health provides insight into preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy. She outlines both the precautions and treatments that can be implemented to manage this potentially harmful condition.
Dr. Katherine Campbell, MD at Yale New Haven Health, elaborates on the nature of preeclampsia. "What we do know is that preeclampsia is a syndrome that is mediated by the placenta and the blood vessel connections between the placenta and the maternal circulation," she explains. Further adding, "We do know when there's more placenta present, the risk for preeclampsia increases."
High blood pressure is a common occurrence among pregnant women. If diagnosed before twenty weeks of gestation, it is referred to as chronic hypertension. However, if identified after twenty weeks, it signifies gestational hypertension. Preeclampsia falls under gestational hypertension and can persist even in the postpartum period. The symptoms commonly associated with this condition include abdominal pain, headaches, and changes in vision. If not treated promptly, preeclampsia can lead to severe health complications according to a news release from Yale New Haven Health.
Dr. Campbell also sheds light on how alarming a diagnosis of preeclampsia can be for patients and their families. "It can be quite shocking when preeclampsia is diagnosed, and it can be traumatizing for a patient and their family when they hear they have to be hospitalized and possibly delivered prior to their due date," she states. She emphasizes on discussing a surveillance plan with patients who have had preeclampsia previously so that an effective strategy can be developed for any future pregnancies.
Several safe and effective treatments are available for managing preeclampsia according to another news release from Yale New Haven Health. Lifestyle modifications such as reducing salt intake, adopting an exercise routine, and maintaining a nutritious diet can significantly help in managing high blood pressure. The use of aspirin is also recommended, with positive results seen when women take baby aspirin from twelve weeks into their pregnancy until they reach thirty-seven weeks. In severe cases of preeclampsia, women may be advised to take magnesium sulfate with an IV to reduce the risk of seizures. With these treatments and medical supervision, women with preeclampsia can have a better pregnancy experience.
