Pregnancy is a special time for every woman. During this period, many changes take place in the body which affect health. Many women complain of headache during pregnancy. In most cases, this is due to common things like hormonal changes, lack of sleep, stress, dehydration, not eating or fatigue. Often, getting plenty of rest, eating a balanced diet, and not allowing the body to remain dehydrated provides relief.
However, if the headache is frequent, severe or persistent, it should not be ignored. In some cases, it may be a sign of a serious problem. Frequent headaches during pregnancy may be associated with a serious condition called ‘pre-eclampsia’, which affects the health of both the mother and the baby. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to other symptoms as well. Let us understand what pre-eclampsia is, why it happens and what other symptoms can be seen apart from headache.
Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy problem that usually occurs after the 20th week. This increases the blood pressure of the pregnant woman and can affect organs like kidney and liver. If it is not treated, it can pose a threat to both the mother and the child.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the exact cause is not completely known. It is believed to be related to the placenta not developing properly. Women with pre-existing conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disease, as well as those expecting twins (or more) or who are pregnant for the first time, are at greater risk. Therefore, regular prenatal check-ups and monitoring of blood pressure are important.
Apart from headache, what other symptoms can occur in pre-eclampsia?
Persistent or severe headache is one of the most common symptoms of pre-eclampsia. Additionally, symptoms may include blurred vision, seeing flashes of light, sudden swelling of the face and hands, trouble breathing, severe pain in the upper abdomen, nausea or vomiting, and sudden weight gain. The level of protein in the urine of some women may also increase, which can be detected through a test. If any of these symptoms are seen, they should not be ignored or dismissed as normal pregnancy problems.
When should one consult a doctor immediately in case of headache during pregnancy?
If the headache during pregnancy is severe, frequent, or persists despite rest, consult a doctor immediately. Additionally, if you feel any of the symptoms mentioned above, go to the hospital without delay. Get regular prenatal check-ups done and get your blood pressure checked from time to time. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.
