The four types of Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (PIH) are:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Gestational Hypertension (GH) | High blood pressure that develops during pregnancy, typically after 20 weeks, without other signs of preeclampsia. |
| Preeclampsia (PE) | High blood pressure accompanied by protein in the urine and/or other signs of organ damage that arises during pregnancy. |
| Superimposed Preeclampsia (S-PE) | Preeclampsia that develops in a woman with pre-existing chronic hypertension. |
| Eclampsia (E) | The most severe form of PIH, characterized by seizures in a woman with preeclampsia. This can be a life-threatening condition. |
Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (PIH), also known as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, is a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy. According to the provided reference, PIH is classified into four main categories.
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Gestational hypertension (GH): This refers to high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy without the presence of proteinuria (protein in the urine) or other signs of preeclampsia. It's crucial to monitor this condition closely, as it can progress to more severe forms.
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Preeclampsia (PE): This more serious condition is characterized by high blood pressure and proteinuria, which signifies kidney involvement. It may also manifest with other symptoms, such as headaches, vision changes, abdominal pain, and swelling.
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Superimposed preeclampsia (S-PE): This occurs when a woman who already has chronic high blood pressure before pregnancy develops preeclampsia during pregnancy. It's a particularly dangerous condition that requires careful monitoring and management.
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Eclampsia (E): This is the most severe form of PIH. It is characterized by the occurrence of seizures in a woman with preeclampsia. This condition requires immediate medical intervention as it can be life-threatening for both mother and baby.
Understanding these classifications is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Regular prenatal checkups can help detect and address these conditions early, reducing potential complications.
