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Warning-sign checks

Pregnancy-induced hypertension: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for a seizure, collapse, severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of a stroke such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or trouble speaking.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact your maternity assessment unit urgently if:

    • A blood pressure reading is 160/110 mmHg or higher
    • You have a severe headache that does not settle
    • You have blurred vision, flashing lights, or loss of vision
    • You have strong pain beneath the ribs or in the upper abdomen
    • You develop sudden facial or hand swelling with other symptoms
    • You feel suddenly unwell, vomit unexpectedly later in pregnancy, or become short of breath
    • Your baby's movements are reduced or different from usual
    • You have vaginal bleeding or severe abdominal pain

    Do not wait for your next routine appointment when these signs occur.

    Contact your maternity team sooner if home readings repeatedly exceed the limit they gave you, even if they are below the severe range.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    For routine follow-up, attend all arranged blood pressure checks, blood tests, scans, and postpartum appointments.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Pregnancy-induced hypertension. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.