Patient's question:
I am 31 weeks pregnant. I had a check-up today, and it was said that I have a bit of gestational hypertension and also a bit of gestational diabetes. I want to know the causes and consequences of these two diseases.Doctor's answer:
Hello: It commonly occurs in the middle and late stages of pregnancy, with main symptoms including elevated blood pressure, dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, reduced urination, and edema in the lower limbs or throughout the body. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures and coma.Edema, hypertension, and proteinuria are the three major symptoms of preeclampsia, which must be taken seriously and treated promptly.
Edema: It often starts with mild edema in the lower limbs. If the edema disappears after proper rest, it is normal. However, if the edema persists or worsens after rest, and there is a depression when pressing the ankles, it is abnormal. In severe cases, edema can affect the entire body, making the skin shiny and eyelids swollen. Some women may have minimal visible edema but experience rapid weight gain, exceeding 500 grams per week, which also indicates edema, known as hidden edema. This is abnormal. In such cases, pregnant women should reduce salt intake, preferably consuming plain soy milk daily to aid diuresis and reduce swelling. Additionally, under medical guidance, diuretic medications can be taken.
Hypertension: Pregnancy-induced hypertension is defined as a systolic blood pressure of 130 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher. Alternatively, if compared to the baseline blood pressure (before pregnancy or before the third month of pregnancy), the systolic pressure increases by more than 30 mmHg, and the diastolic pressure rises by more than 15 mmHg. In addition to rest, antihypertensive and sedative medications are required. If symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, or chest tightness do not improve after treatment, hospitalization is necessary.
Proteinuria: Some pregnant women with significant edema and hypertension may experience severe kidney damage, leading to the presence of abnormal components in the urine, such as protein.