Health Tip: High Blood Pressure While You're Pregnant
June 18, 2009, 12:02 PM ET
• 1 min read
June 19 -- (HealthDay News) -- High blood pressure during pregnancy may develop into a dangerous condition called preeclampsia -- putting both mom and baby at risk.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these suggestions to help make your pregnancy safer:
Before you become pregnant, work with your doctor to get your blood pressure within a normal range.Help manage high blood pressure with a healthy diet, regular exercise and weight loss.Always take your blood pressure medicines as your doctor prescribes.Talk to your doctor about taking high blood pressure medication during pregnancy.Once you are pregnant, visit your doctor regularly to closely monitor your blood pressure, both at the doctor's office and at home.Talk to your doctor about kidney disease or any other health conditions that may impact your blood pressure.If you develop symptoms of preeclampsia -- including headaches, rapid weight gain, visual problems or swelling of the hands or face -- contact your doctor immediately.