When it comes to pregnancy symptoms there are two kinds of women
that drive doctors crazy. There are those who call for every little
twinge of discomfort, and there are those who wouldn't call even
if they were tied to a tree, covered with honey, right under a bee's
hive. Why? Because "I didn't want to bother you." Here
are some tips to help you avoid falling into either of these two
categories.
Vaginal Bleeding: Vaginal bleeding doesn't automatically
mean that there is a serious problem, but the source, and cause
of the bleeding needs to be investigated. Panic usually follows
this pregnancy symptom if you're on the toilet when you discover
the bleeding. This is a result of even a few drops of blood looking
like a gallon as soon as they hit the water. Stay calm, and wipe
with toilet paper. Make a note of the color - was it bright red,
or more reddish-brown? Did the bleeding occur after some activity,
such as intercourse, or moving furniture? Is the bleeding associated
with cramping, or localized pain somewhere in the area? Your doctor
will ask these questions, as well as how much blood you think you
lost. Now, remember the difference between bleeding and hemorrhaging?
If the blood isn't running down your leg and filling up your shoe,
you're not hemorrhaging. Stay calm and call your doctor.
Generalized Swelling Of The Face & Fingers:
Some swelling of your feet and ankles is a common pregnancy symptom,
and is no cause for alarm. However, add the swelling of your face
and fingers along with that of your feet and ankles and this may
be a sign of preeclampsia (toxemia). This combined swelling requires
a visit with your doctor.
Extreme Continuous Headaches: Another possible sign
of preeclampsia is a severe and continuous headache, sometimes accompanied
by a dimness, or blurring of vision. Migraine headaches also have
these symptoms, but to be on the safe side, consult with your doctor.
Especially, if you do not normally get migraine headaches.
Abdominal Pain: Aches and pains can be so common
a pregnancy symptom that it is often difficult deciding if your
abdominal pain is something to be concerned about. Before calling
your doctor, think about what kind of pain you're having, and ask
yourself these questions: Where is it? What does it feel like? Do
you have any additional symptoms besides abdominal pain, such as
bleeding? Has there been an increase in your vaginal discharge?
Does your pain come and go, or is it constant? It may just be the
old round ligament pain again, but call your doctor and check it
out.
Persistent Vomiting: This is one you will need help
with. It's important that you don't become too dehydrated and upset
your body's chemical balance. Don't wait until you're so dehydrated
that your tongue looks and feels like the sands of the desert. Call
your doctor.
While it is safe to overlook what may be considered
the usual discomforts associated with pregnancy, any pregnancy symptom
that may seem serious, or that you can't explain requires a call
to your doctor.
About the Author
Carl DiNello is an Article Author whose articles are featured on
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