(HealthDay News) -- High blood pressure during pregnancy may develop into a dangerous condition called preeclampsia -- putting both mom and baby at risk.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these suggestions to help make your pregnancy safer:
- Before you become pregnant, work with your doctor to get your blood pressure within a normal range.
- Help manage high blood pressure with a healthy diet, regular exercise and weight loss.
- Always take your blood pressure medicines as your doctor prescribes.
- Talk to your doctor about taking high blood pressure medication during pregnancy.
- Once you are pregnant, visit your doctor regularly to closely monitor your blood pressure, both at the doctor's office and at home.
- Talk to your doctor about kidney disease or any other health conditions that may impact your blood pressure.
- If you develop symptoms of preeclampsia -- including headaches, rapid weight gain, visual problems or swelling of the hands or face -- contact your doctor immediately.
