Low blood pressure pregnancy
Pregnancy is considering the most amazing joyful experience of a woman's life. However, for few, a condition like low blood pressure could make it somewhat difficult to enjoy their pregnancy.
The cardiovascular system normally undergoes various changes during pregnancy; heart rate increases and the amount of blood increases in the body, which causes a blood pressure variation. Hypotension during pregnancy would mean that the blood pressure ranges are below 90/60, the normal blood pressure count being approximately 120/80.
Causes of Low Blood Pressure during Pregnancy
Low blood pressure during pregnancy can be of various causes, such as:
- Expansion of the circulatory system,
- Certain hormones release, which can expand the blood vessels
- The uterus enlarges, puts pressure on the large blood vessels causing hypotension. This is usually experiencing while lying down known as supine hypotension.
- Postural hypotension is causing by the pooling of blood in the legs, which restricts the flow of blood to the brain. This is experienced while rising from a sitting position or lying position.
- Anemia and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) can also cause low blood pressure during pregnancy.
Low Blood Pressure treatment during Pregnancy
Low blood pressure during pregnancy can avoid by following certain important things:
- Have a healthy food to prevent anemia or hypoglycemia (low blood glucose/sugar) Eat small frequent meals to avoid going hungry for long hours.
- Drink plenty of water or other liquid such as fruit juices to avoid dehydration.
- Rise slowly and carefully, while getting up from a sitting or lying position. Do not stay at particular position (sitting or standing) for a long time.
- Lying on the side is advisable instead of lying on the back. Laying on the back causes the uterus to pressurize the blood vessels, which restricts the blood flow and causes to lower blood pressure.
- Does mild regular exercise such as walking can prevent the symptoms of low blood pressure by improving blood circulation?
Visit the doctor regularly is necessary to rule out any risks related to hypotension or otherwise. In case of aggravated symptoms, take the medications prescribed.
There is nothing really to worry about whether the symptoms are mild, just consider it a part of the package and prepare to welcome the little bundle (baby) of big joy!