Heartburn, anemia, constipation are typical pregnancy complaints. Sometimes, however, a more serious illness can occur. The threat may affect not only the woman, but also the child. That is why it is so important to detect the disease early or react immediately in the event of an injury.

Appendicitis , arm fracture,venous thrombosis , achingtooth- how to deal with deal with sudden discomforts that may arise during pregnancy.

Appendicitis in pregnancy

The appendix is ​​a blind appendage of the intestine, located in the right lower abdomen. Due to the change in the position of the intestines (and thus the appendix) caused by the enlarging uterus, appendicitis can be difficult to diagnose. The disease manifests itself with abdominal pain that does not go away, although it may vary in severity. It is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The course of the disease is usually quite dynamic, so urgent diagnosis is necessary, as well as cooperation between the gynecologist and the surgeon. Ultrasound examination, which shows the normal state of pregnancy, is helpful in diagnosing the disease. From laboratory tests, the concern should be caused by the increase in CRP concentration, i.e. acute phase protein, and the level of leukocytes in the blood ( although their excess is normal during pregnancy).

» Treatment. Initially, until the diagnosis is made, you may be given antispasmodics and pain relievers. If the doctor confirms acute appendicitis, surgery will be required. It is now possible during pregnancy. Ignoring the ailments or refusing to consent to surgery can have fatal consequences and cause perforation of the appendix.

Breaking an arm during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the belly grows and the center of gravity changes. Therefore, walking on an icy pavement may end up falling and breaking, for example, your arm. It is manifested by severe pain, swelling of the injured limb, and even an unnatural deformation. A visit to the orthopedic emergency room is essential.

» Treatment. When the pain is severe, you may first take an anesthetic such as paracetamol. If necessary, the orthopedic surgeon will recommend an x-ray after examining your hand. If the fracture is confirmed by examination, a cast will be required.

Important

X-ray and other pregnancy tests

Pregnant not recommendedtaking x-rays. They should be avoided, especially in the first two trimesters, and whenever possible, replaced with other tests, such as ultrasound. However, there may be occasions when an X-ray is necessary. Then the doctor, considering all the pros and cons, may order them. To mitigate the impact of radiation on the fetus, she covers the pregnant woman's belly with a lead apron.

Pregnancy is also a contraindication to performing computed tomography and scintigraphic examinations. However, it is allowed to perform an MRI, but without contrast.

Venous thrombosis in pregnancy

Pain in the leg, swelling, warmth, as well as pain when pressing or bending the foot upwards may indicate a blood clot in the veins (not all symptoms occur simultaneously). If some of these symptoms persist, an appointment with your doctor or hospital emergency room is essential. You need to do a Doppler ultrasound scan, as well as D-dimers (a protein that can help diagnose thrombosis). It is worth remembering, however, that the level of D-dimers during pregnancy is physiologically elevated, therefore the above-normal result alone, without a medical examination, especially ultrasound of the vessels, does not allow to diagnose thrombosis.

» Treatment. If the disease is confirmed, the doctor will decide whether treatment can be at home or in hospital. It is necessary to lift the diseased leg, use compression therapy, as well as anticoagulants (in the form of painless injections). Treatment is necessary and must be followed for as long as your doctor has told you, often for several weeks after giving birth.

Blood pressure jump

In the second trimester, blood pressure usually drops slightly, returning to baseline values ​​at the end of pregnancy. Normal should not be higher than 140/90 mmHg. Exceeding even one of these values ​​is a disturbing symptom and requires a visit to the doctor. Symptoms of high blood pressure may include headache, fatigue, trouble sleeping, feeling unwell, anxiety, sometimes nausea, or blurred vision. Before going to the clinic, it is advisable to rest for a while and measure your blood pressure again after a few minutes.

» Treatment. If your systolic blood pressure reaches or exceeds 160-170, or diastolic 100-110 mmHg, you should go to the hospital as soon as possible. Such a condition requires urgent medical intervention and administration of drugs that will cause a rapid but safe drop in blood pressure. Arterial hypertension with concomitant proteinuria is a symptom of preeclampsia, dangerous for mother and child. Therefore, the increase in value must not be underestimatedpressure in pregnancy.

Hospital stay

It happens that a stay in hospital is necessary due to illness. Don't break down on this, don't panic. First make sure it is necessary (you can consult another doctor). If it turns out that you have no other choice, try to organize the world around you so that the stay in the hospital is as little bothersome as possible. Ask loved ones to visit you in turns. Thanks to this, you will not feel lonely. Let your loved ones bring you your favorite meals. You can keep them signed in the hospital refrigerator. Ask for a small room, and if you cannot get up, also a screen, which, if necessary, will cover the bed from the gaze of your roommate or her guests. If you don't like being uninformed, ask your doctors if you have any concerns. If necessary, you can ask for an appointment with the head of the doctor.

Fall pregnant

A minor fall without a heavy bruise, with no pain, uterine cramps, or bleeding, is usually not a problem. However, if there is an abdominal injury, a visit to the hospital is necessary. The result may be the detachment of the placenta. An urgent visit should be prompted by vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, uterine cramps, loss of consciousness (even momentary), vomiting, and lack of baby's movements.

» Treatment. It depends on the effects of the injury. Usually it all ends with fear and pain relief measures. Sometimes a few days' observation in the hospital is necessary. The final decision on how to proceed depends on the doctor. For the sake of mum and baby, it is worth relying on professional help.

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