What To Do When Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?
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Pregnancy causes many changes in a woman’s body, including weight gain, hormonal fluctuation, increased food cravings, etc. It is a complete hormonal process that starts with the fertilization of the egg by a male sperm. It changes the body in a way that requires more resources to function.
Pregnancy requires constant monitoring and care with rest, good nutrition, and light physical activities. One of the changes occurring in the body during pregnancy is a drop in blood pressure. Low blood pressure is common in the first and second trimester of pregnancy.
Causes of Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
Blood pressure depends on the woman's lifestyle, including her energy levels, nervousness, and stress levels. Initially, the woman's blood pressure is supposed to remain the same during the first 24 weeks of the pregnancy. It is probably due to changes in the circulatory system, as the blood vessels expand to allow blood flow to the uterus. For maintaining stable blood pressure during pregnancy, it's crucial to follow pregnancy tips such as maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, getting regular exercise, and managing stress levels.
Sometimes, there are other causes as well, like standing for a prolonged time and lying in a hot bath for an extended period. Let's look at some reasons that lead to low blood pressure during pregnancy:
- allergic reactions
- infections
- heart conditions
- endocrine disorders
- some medications
- prolonged bed rest
- dehydration
- malnutrition
- internal bleeding
- anemia
Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
Let's look at some of the symptoms that you might face if there is a low platelet count during pregnancy:
- dizziness or confusion
- depression
- lightheadedness, especially after standing up quickly
- nausea
- weakness that gets worse as the day progresses
- thirst, even after drinking
- cold, pale, or clammy skin
- not being able to catch the breath or taking shallow, rapid breaths
- Blurred or double vision
Read also: Symptoms аnd Body Сhаnges in 5 Weeks оf Pregnancy
Risks and Effects of Low Blood Pressure on Baby
The primary risk that arises in such situations is the falling off of the woman carrying the baby by fainting. This may prove dangerous to the woman and the child. The woman may injure herself by falling, and sudden disconnect due to fainting may cause internal disturbances in the uterus.
Let's look at some other risks of low blood pressure during pregnancy:
- In cases of severe low blood pressure, it may result in organ damage.
- Continuous low blood pressure during pregnancy may lead to stillbirth.
Pregnancy Tips to Treat Low Blood Pressure
Here are some of the pregnancy tips to treat low blood pressure:
- The underlying root cause, like hormonal imbalance, should be treated first. For example, if the conceiving woman has thyroid issues, which in turn lead to low blood pressure, it needs to be treated first.
- If a prescription drug is causing low blood pressure, an alternative drug can be suggested.
- Consume plenty of liquids to treat morning sickness or nausea.
- Instead of jumping straight from bed after a good night's sleep, wake up slowly.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes, and some even wear compression stockings to improve blood circulation.
- Increase the salt consumption to increase your blood pressure. However, excessive consumption of salt is not suggested.
Wrapping up,
Low blood pressure is common during pregnancy, and it can be managed well with home remedies and pregnancy tips. However, you should see a doctor immediately if you have frequent episodes of fainting. If you have other symptoms, like headaches, vision changes, shortness of breath, or chest pain, it is best to share everything with your doctor.
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