The Only Cure for Pre Eclampsia is Delivery in Teenage Pregnancy
If you are in your fifth month of pregnancy and you are experiencing headaches, dizziness, nausea, sudden weight gain and upper abdominal pain, then you better visit your physician right away. Such may be the usual symptoms of pregnancy. However, these symptoms are also considered as the primary signs of pre eclampsia, especially if you also experience changes in your visual senses and swelling.
Pre eclampsia, also known as pregnancy-induced hypertension is very typical for women especially during the last trimester of their pregnancy. It is basically characterized with an increased blood pressure along with the presence of excess protein in the urine. Basically, the excess protein indicates complications in the kidney.
If left untreated, Pre eclampsia can lead to lethal complications for the mother and the baby. However, this condition can easily be detected through regular prenatal check-ups.
What causes pre eclampsia?
Until the late nineteenth century, Pre eclampsia was often referred to as toxemia and people, even doctors, thought that it was caused by a toxin in the bloodstream of a pregnant woman. However, such theory was later debunked as experts discovered other causes.
Most researchers point out to insufficient blood flow to the uterus, along with damage to the blood vessels that allow the blood to freely circulate between the mother and the baby.
Some experts say that pre eclampsia may also be caused by a problem with the immune system. Others point out that it can ultimately be caused by a poor diet which causes deficiencies in pertinent nutrients needed in pregnancy.
Treatment and Cure
Unfortunately, the only way to completely cure pre eclampsia is by delivering the baby. During delivery, you are at a high risk for placental abruption and severe bleeding.
However, if it is still too early to deliver the baby, pregnancy should be prolonged. Thus, the doctor may have to recommend some tests, medications, and bed rest in order to temporary alleviate the effects of high blood pressure while the baby matures in your womb.
If you are diagnosed with mild pre eclampsia during the early stages of your pregnancy, the physician may ask you to have some bed rest. This means that you will have to limit your daily routine. You may have to lie in bed most of the time so as to increase the blood flow to your uterus and the placenta. Relaxation can also help lower your blood pressure.
Moreover, you may be required to take corticosteroids. Such medications can temporarily improve your liver and platelet functioning. It can also aid in the development of your baby’s lungs prior to delivery. GP
Posted on August 20, 2008 by admin