Varneys Ch 23 Discomforts of PREG Flashcards
What is the presumed cause of dyspnea in pregnancy?
diaphragm displacement
What are some differential diagnoses of dyspnea in pregnancy?
- w/ tachycardia=anxiety/panic
- respiratory infection
- cardiac d/o
- pulmonary embolism
What is the cause of dependent edema in pregnancy?
Impaired venous circulation, increased venous pressure in lower extremities from enlarged uterus.
What are some differential diagnoses of dependent edema in pregnancy?
- DVT
- Preeclampsia
What are strategies to decrease dependent edema in pregnancy?
- exercise
- avoid prolonged sitting or standing
- Elevate legs periodically
- compression socks
What is the cause of syncope or dizziness in pregnancy?
enlarged uterus impairs venous return causing hypotension.
What are some differential diagnoses of syncope or dizziness in pregnancy?
- hypoglycemia
- seizure d/o
What is the cause of varicosities in pregnancy?
venous distention from increased venous pressure and vasodilation. most common in legs or vulva.
What are strategies to decrease varicosities in pregnancy?
- rest the effected extremity.
- wear compression socks
- wear pregnancy support belt or vulvar varicosity garment.
What is the cause of constipation in pregnancy?
progesterone slows motility of GI tract, pressure on GI tract from uterus, and sometimes iron supplements.
What are strategies to decrease constipation in pregnancy?
- increase fluids
- warm liquids to stimulate peristalsis
- increase fiber
- bulk-forming laxatives, stool softeners, glycerin suppositories
- Avoid stimulant laxatives and castor oil
What are strategies to decrease gas pain in pregnancy?
- exercise
- caffeine - stimulates motility
- knee-chest position
What is the cause of heartburn in pregnancy?
progesterone induced relaxation of the LES, slower emptying of gastric contents, and reduced stomach capacity
What are strategies to decrease heartburn in pregnancy?
- small, frequent meals
- avoid aggravating foods
- Elevate HOB, avoid lying down after eating
- antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, PPIs
What are strategies to decrease ptyalism (excessive saliva production) in pregnancy?
chew gum or suck on hard candy