Is preeclampsia considered gestational hypertension?
Nov 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
In general, preeclampsia falls under the category of hypertension during pregnancy. A detailed analysis is as follows: For patients with preeclampsia, blood pressure, urinary protein, and fetal status must be closely monitored, and the condition should be managed through measures such as rest, sedation, antispasmodic treatment, and blood pressure reduction. If necessary, timely termination of pregnancy may be required to ensure the health of both the mother and the fetus.
Generally speaking, preeclampsia falls under the category of gestational hypertension. A detailed analysis is as follows:
Preeclampsia is a more severe type of hypertensive disorder during pregnancy, characterized primarily by the development of hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation, and may be accompanied by damage to multiple organ systems. Gestational hypertension refers to a condition in which blood pressure rises above 140 mmHg systolic or 90 mmHg diastolic after 20 weeks of pregnancy without proteinuria, and blood pressure returns to normal within 12 weeks postpartum.
In addition to elevated blood pressure, patients with preeclampsia may also present with proteinuria and may experience symptoms such as edema, headache, blurred vision, and upper abdominal discomfort. Patients with gestational hypertension mainly exhibit elevated blood pressure, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as edema, but typically have negative urine protein tests.
Patients with preeclampsia require close monitoring of blood pressure, proteinuria, and fetal status. The condition should be managed through rest, sedation, anticonvulsant therapy, and blood pressure control. If necessary, timely termination of pregnancy may be required to ensure maternal and fetal health. Patients with gestational hypertension mainly rely on lifestyle modifications and medication to control blood pressure and prevent complications.
