Minor complaints of pregnancy Flashcards

1
Q

Name the main complaints

A

Abdominal pain

Heartburn

Constipation

Backache

Syncope

Varicosities

Carpal tunnel sy

Pelvic girdle dysfunction (symphyseal pelvic dysfunction ‘SPD’)

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2
Q

Abdominal pain

A

§ Due to stretching of abdominal ligaments and muscles, pressure of gravid uterus on the abdomen.

§ Pathological may be due to early ectopic pregnancy, ovarian torsion, UTI, and miscarriage.

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3
Q

Heartburn

A

GERD more likely to happen due to delay gastric emptying ~ 3rd trimester.

§ DD: myocardial infraction, angina and muscular pain.

§ Avoid spicy and acidic food! If not use histamine-receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors

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4
Q

Constipation

A

Due to elevated levels of progesterone that lowers motility.

§ Increase fiber intake, laxatives and iron supplements.

§ Must be treated as it may prevent fetal head from descending into the pelvis

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5
Q

Backache

A

Due to uterus pressure causing lumbar lordosis and hormones affecting soft tissue.
§ Treat using physiotherapy. Aspirin and NSAIDs are avoided!

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6
Q

Syncope

A

Hypotension due to progesterone effects causing vasodilation or due to reduced venous return.

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7
Q

Varicosities

A

In the legs or vulva due to pressure on pelvic veins from gravid uterus reducing venous return.
§ Elevating the legs helps but if severe then heparin is considered.

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8
Q

Carpal tunnel sy

A

Fluid retention due to increased capillary permeability compression of median nerve.
§ Steroid injections in severe cases!

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9
Q

Pelvic girdle dysfunction (symphyseal pelvic dysfunction ‘SPD’)

A

Raised levels of relaxin in pregnancy; increases joint mobility to allow expansion of the pelvic ring.

§ Pain in felt at symphysis, hip or around the pelvis and worsen as gestation increases.

§ Described at pain during walking or standing with tenderness.

§ Treat by physiotherapy and exercise! If not then simple analgesics.

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