Dealing With Preeclampsia
January 13, 2010
Symptoms of preeclampsia occur usually by second half of the pregnancy. It is characterized by a high blood pressure which can not be cured but can be managed.
The increased blood pressure reduces blood flow to the placenta and hence the baby may become deprived of the vital nutrients required for its growth and survival. Unmanaged preeclampsia may lead to eclampsia where blood pressure becomes very high putting the unborn at a greater risk.
Who is at Risk?
Women who have had a history of preeclampsia or whose mother or sister have had this problem are at a very higher risk of developing it. Women who are below 20 years of age and those above 35 bearing their first pregnancy are at great risk.
Risk increases if women is carrying more than 1 baby or is suffering from a medical problem such as migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity.
Treatment
The treatment given to you will depend on your medical history, how well you may tolerate the medication without possibility of any further risk, remaining gestation period and seriousness of the condition.
Most population option available is intravenous or intramuscular administration of magnesium sulphate. This therapy is especially useful in preventing development of eclampsia. Treatment with parenteral management requires delivery of foetus once it has become mature.
Treatment Alternatives
Herbal teas of dandelion, celery, raspberry and nettle leaves helps reduce stress and lower the blood pressure. Consume 1-2 freshly cut garlic cloves every morning. Garlic has natural anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce swelling due to fluid retention in the body because of preeclampsia.
Beetroot offers similar benefits. Cut thin slices of beetroot and pour on some lemon juice. Freeze them overnight and consume one slice everyday. This remedy is also helpful for pregnancy related constipation.
Regulate consumption of salt and sugar since these may further increase fluid retention inside the body. Eat a balanced diet and drink good amount of water. Do not smoke.
Supplementation with vitamin C and E is helpful in reducing symptoms but these should be taken only under supervision of the health care provider.
The best thing would be to avoid occurrence of preeclampsia by getting pregnant when one is physically fit.
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