Final answer:
Gestational hypertension is considered severe when blood pressure readings are 160/110 mm Hg or above. It poses significant risks to both mother and fetus, necessitating acute management to prevent complications. Certain medications, like ACE inhibitors, are contraindicated due to potential fetal harm.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gestational Hypertension Severity
When discussing gestational hypertension (HTN), which is high blood pressure that occurs during pregnancy, it is considered severe when the blood pressure readings are persistently at or above 160/110 mm Hg. This condition can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the fetus, such as increased risk for heart attack, stroke, and complications like peripheral arterial disease and chronic kidney disease. Acute management and monitoring during pregnancy are crucial to avoiding adverse outcomes such as fetal growth restriction, placental abruption, or preterm delivery. Additionally, certain medications like angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors must be avoided as they can cause fetal complications like renal failure, oligohydramnios, pulmonary hypoplasia, limb contractures, and cranial bone abnormalities.