High blood pressure that occurs when a women is pregnant, is referred to as pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). Although it is rare, studies have revealed that around 6 to 8 % of the pregnant women suffer from it. Pregnancy-induced hypertension is also sometimes referred to as pre-eclampsia or toxemia. In most cases, it is seen in women who are pregnant for the first time. Also, it is likely that women with diabetes, kidney diseases and those who have multiple fetuses are more prone to developing pregnancy-induced hypertension. A general trend is that PIH is more common in pregnant women who are less than 20 years of age and those above the age of 40.
A person suffering from pregnancy-induced hypertension has to go through tests to confirm the degree of the problem. Pregnancy-induced hypertension testing is conducted frequently. Measurements are taken after every six hours. Such a testing includes:
Blood pressure measurement – if a patient’s blood pressure is above 140/90, then she might develop the problem.
Another common test is the assessment of edema. If there is swelling in the hands, feet, or face and upon pressing, if these areas retain an indentation, then the patient is likely to develop pre-eclampsia.
Urine and weight are frequently measured to keep a check on the patient’s health. They check if there is an abnormal increase in protein levels.
Kidney and liver are checked to see if there is any malfunctioning.
An eye check-up is also done to see if any changes in vision have incurred due to pre-eclampsia. Fetal monitoring is done to keep on the developing fetus. The effect of rising blood pressure on the developing fetus is constantly monitored.
