Increase in High Blood Pressure Among Pregnant Women
October 16, 2019
Researchers from the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School released a study recently that showed an alarming rise in blood pressure among pregnant women. A number of factors contributed to this increase, including the fact that women are having children later in life. They also found that African American women are at a greater risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy compared to Caucasian women. High blood pressure can cause a range of health risks, including low birth weight, an increased risk of preterm birth in the baby, and preeclampsia in the mother. Fortunately, there are steps women can take to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and protect their health and the health of their baby.
The researchers examined data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about the number of women who gave birth in hospitals between 1970 and 2010, which included over 151 million births. Over the 40-year period, hypertension rates during pregnancy increased from 0.11 percent in 1970 to 1.52 percent in 2010. During the study period, the prevalence of hypertension in Caucasian women was 0.53 percent, and 1.24 percent in African American women.
Steps to Take to Reduce the Risk of High Blood Pressure
Women who are thinking about starting a family should consult with their health care provider to determine whether there are any specific health risks to consider, or medications that that should not be taken during pregnancy. According to the study author, women should keep the following recommendations in mind to reduce the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get regular exercise
- Do not smoke or drink during pregnancy
- If there is a history of high blood pressure, find a doctor who specializes in high risk pregnancies
- Understand the warning signs of preeclampsia, including persistent, headaches, abdominal pain, blurred vision, nausea or vomiting, swelling of the face or hands, sudden weight gain, or trouble breathing
In some cases, a pregnant woman may have preeclampsia without having any obvious symptoms. If undiagnosed and left untreated, preeclampsia can become quite serious, resulting in complications, including stroke, seizure, heart failure, and placental abruption. In extreme cases, it can be fatal. All women, but particularly those who are at high risk, should have their blood pressure monitored regularly throughout their pregnancy. Women who have hypertension can obtain blood pressure monitors that can be used at home.
Baltimore Medical Malpractice Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Advocate for Victims of Undiagnosed Preeclampsia
If you developed high blood pressure during pregnancy, and your health care provider failed to diagnose the condition, or provide the appropriate treatment, you are urged to contact the Baltimore medical malpractice lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton at your earliest convenience. Our dedicated and compassionate team will conduct a thorough investigation into the details of your case and determine who is responsible for your injury. We will work tirelessly to protect your legal rights and secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson,
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