By Dr. Aneley Yegezu Hundae, M.D., FACC
Heart disease is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is a leading cause of death among both men and women, and it can be especially dangerous for pregnant women. During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes significant changes, and these changes can put additional strain on the heart. This article will explore the risks of heart disease for pregnant women and what can be done to mitigate these risks.
Understanding Heart Disease
Heart disease is a term that encompasses a variety of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. Some of the most common types of heart disease include coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. These conditions can be caused by a variety of factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and obesity.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease During Pregnancy
Pregnancy can put additional strain on the heart, which can increase the risk of heart disease. There are several risk factors that can make a woman more likely to develop heart disease during pregnancy. These include:
• Pre-existing heart conditions: Women who have pre-existing heart conditions, such as congenital heart disease or valve disorders, are at higher risk of developing complications during pregnancy.
• High blood pressure: High blood pressure is a common problem during pregnancy and can increase the risk of heart disease.
• Diabetes: Women who have diabetes are at higher risk of developing heart disease during pregnancy.
• Obesity: Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease, and pregnant women who are obese are more likely to develop heart problems.
• Age: Older women are at higher risk of developing heart disease during pregnancy.
Complications of Heart Disease During Pregnancy
Heart disease can cause a variety of complications during pregnancy, some of which can be life-threatening. These complications include:
• Pre-eclampsia: Pre-eclampsia is a serious condition that can develop during pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys. Women with pre-existing heart disease are at higher risk of developing pre-eclampsia.
• Premature birth: Women with heart disease are more likely to deliver prematurely, which can put the baby at risk for a variety of complications.
• Heart failure: Heart failure can occur when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. This can be especially dangerous during pregnancy when the body requires more blood to support the growing fetus.
• Blood clots: Women with heart disease are at higher risk of developing blood clots, which can be life-threatening if they travel to the lungs or brain.
Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease During Pregnancy
While heart disease during pregnancy can be a serious concern, there are steps that women can take to reduce their risk. These include:
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Women who are overweight or obese should work with their healthcare provider to develop a healthy eating and exercise plan to help reduce their risk of heart disease.
• Monitoring blood pressure: Women with high blood pressure should work with their healthcare provider to monitor their blood pressure regularly and take steps to keep it under control.
• Managing diabetes: Women with diabetes should work with their healthcare provider to manage their blood sugar levels and reduce their risk of heart disease.
• Getting regular prenatal care: Regular prenatal care can help detect and manage any potential complications early, reducing the risk of serious problems later on.
• Taking medications as prescribed: Women with pre-existing heart conditions may need to take medications to manage their condition during pregnancy. It is important to take these medications exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of complications.
If you have heart disease and plan to become pregnant, get a consultation from your doctor to determine if pregnancy is safe for you. There are certain kinds of heart disease where pregnancy can be dangerous and not advised.
Dr. Aneley Yegezu Hundae, M.D., FACC
invasive cardiology and advanced heart failure management
Dr. Hundae received his Premedical and Doctor of Medicine Degree from Jimma University School of Medicine. He completed his Internal medicine Residency at Mercer University School of Medicine. His Heart Failure/Heart Transplant fellowship at the University of Miami Cardiovascular Fellowship Program. Cardiovascular fellowship at Baylor University Medical Center.
Board certifications
• Cardiology
• Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant
• Nuclear Cardiology
• Comprehensive Echocardiography
• Internal Medicine
3161 Harbor Blvd, Suite A, Port Charlotte, FL 33952
(941) 235-8892
www.portcharlottecardiology.com