PIH or pregnancy induced hypertension is initially treated with bed rest in a left side-lying position. Lying on the left side displaces the pressure of the enlarged uterus from the inferior vena cava thereby increasing blood return to the right side of the heart, perfusion to the kidneys and excretion of excessive fluid. While on bed rest the health care team will monitor the woman’s blood pressure, weight gain, urine protein levels and presence of edema. These are indicator of whether the PIH is improving or getting worse. If the condition worsens, the woman may be admitted to the hospital and started on an infusion of Magnesium sulfate. The delivery of the fetus would also be considered as part of the treatment plan as the only known cure for PIH is to deliver the fetus.
However, if your hypertension is advanced, your doctor may recommend that you take some medication to lower your blood pressure. More than anything else, your doctor will probably insist upon regular checkups and appointments to monitor yours and your child's health. If the condition is past the point of treatment, your doctor may have to perform an emergency delivery.
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