High Blood Pressure

I had a DR's visit today at 17 weeks and my bottom number on my blood pressure was very high (100) although the top number was normal (in the 120s) for 3 different readings. They had me lie on my left side for a few minutes and test again and got a little better bottom number, but they were still too close for comfort. My DR doesn't think I'm getting enough fluids and she's probably right. I just feel so full all the time (tummy and bladder!).

Any suggestions on how to make myself drink more water (which I absolutely hate)?

 

I had to drink SO much water while pregnant to stop contractions that I really haven't drank much of it since. Which is horrible I know.
I would literally just force myself to do it. And i would force myself to drink like a whole bottle at one and then take a little break. And then do it again. I really felt like I was drowning in water. Just force in as much as you can!

 

I printed pictures of hospital food and other hospital items to motivate me. It's simple.... you can either DRINK and EAT on your own, or they will MAKE you. Nothing says uncomfortable like a feeding tube! That really helped SCARE my butt into getting my water. Plus, I found a glass that I LIKED to drink from and knew how many of those that I HAD to have a day..... then I reward myself for getting there. But then, I'm not beyond torture and prizes!

Good luck, honey.... blood pressure is no fun.

Dominique

 

Sorry to hear about the B/P problem--Make sure you stay off of your feeet and rest rest rest as much as possible--As far as the water goes-sorry to say but your just gonna have to make yourself

April

Sending BIG HUGS your way :hug99: :hug99: :hug99: :hug99: :hug99:

 

Hi! I am also dealing with blood pressure issues and am currently on bedrest. . .I have found that drinking out of a straw helps me quite a bit at getting a LOT more fluids down. . .Not quite sure why. . .Also limiting high sodium processes foods helps. . .I have been warned that if I don't "BEHAVE" that they will just put me in the hospital, so I am doing everything I can since I have a 3 year old at home with me. . .Good Luck! And most importantly, try not to stress! That raises your blood pressure greatly!

Laura

 

Hiya! I have had genetic high bp and been on meds for it since I was 17 (I'm 35) and was pre-eclamptic with my first son so I know your pain! I added loads of ice to my water, and even ate crushed ice by the glassful. (My grandma used to crush ice for me and add a little honey to it to make it like a sno-cone) Add lemon, lime, or make it into weak decaf iced tea if you like that. Lying on your left side as much as possible throughout the day will help and cut out as much salt as you can. You can get non-carbonated still water too at places like Wal Mart if that appeals to you. High water content foods help too, like watermelon, broth based soup, juicy fruits, etc. Best of luck!

Becky

 

I fill reusable tupperware type water bottles that measure 32 oz a peice with water and lots of ice and I have one with me at all times. I love ice cold water so that is how I get myself to meet my requirements. I also chew on a lot of ice as well because I always crave it at the end of my pregnancies. Sometimes I drink so much water that I feel sick to my stomach but I have has 2 IV's for hydration so far and I don't want another. I sometimes flavor the water with lemon slices or a little cranberry juice just to help the flavor. By the evening (around 7pm) I usually aim to drink about 4 of the water bottles plus some juice and a glass or two of water here and there. The trick is during the day lay on your left side as much as possible and it will help your body process the water more quickly and then you won't be up as much at night peeing. I found this really works well for me. Good luck

 

I HATE WATER! hate hate hate it. I think mostly I hate the taste of it. So I buy Propel water packets to flavor it. Lots of ice, some flavor and I drink about 10 water bottles a day. I do limit the intake after 7pm, so Im not up ALL night in the bathroom!

I can tell you, I had a REALLY high reading 2 appointments ago. I was SOOO freaked. I had pre-eclampsia my first pregnancy. And was worried I was headed down that path again. At my last appointment, I had a normal reading. The nurse told me its probably because she used the wrong cuff. And to tell them to use a LRG instead of a MED.

I hope you can get the number down and pump up the fluids! GOOD LUCK MAMA!!

 

If its only plain water that you hate or have problem with, try fruit juices or ice chips (or cold drinks, usually goes down better). Dehydration can cause alot of problems with preggy women, so as much as we all feel full and bloated (or heartburn), take small sips so frequently, it'd become a habit and it all adds up!!!
Sorry to hear about the BP thing!!! Gotta work on the fluid momma!!