How to Lower Blood Pressure While Pregnant
High blood pressure during pregnancy can be extremely dangerous and can potentially threaten the lives of both mother and child. If left uncontrolled it can develop into a serious condition called pre-eclampsia. To prevent potential complications, it is important to take the right steps to lower your blood pressure and keep it that way throughout the course of your pregnancy.
- Talk to your doctor about the safest medication to take during your pregnancy. If you are already on medicine for your blood pressure, continue to take it as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking your high blood pressure medication and do not make adjustments to the dosage without your doctor's permission.
- Rest as much as possible and try to get in at least one nap a day. Try not to become overly agitated. Ask your doctor what your limits are in terms of physical activity, including exercise. If limited to reduced activity or bed rest follow the doctor's instructions.
- Reduce your salt intake. Salt is known to increase blood pressure and should be eliminated from your diet as much as possible.
- Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits. These help to increase your potassium levels which is known for reducing blood pressure.
- Keep your prenatal care appointments. While this may not directly lower your blood pressure, it allows the doctor to take and keep track of it and monitor any changes or concerns with the baby.
- Stop drinking alcohol, smoking or otherwise taking drugs. These are all things that any pregnant woman should desist and can raise your blood pressure as well as harm your baby. Stopping this type of behavior can help to lower your blood pressure.