In preeclampsia, what is considered elevated blood pressure?

Elevated blood pressure in preeclampsia is defined as 140/90 mmHg or higher, or an increase of 30 mmHg in systolic blood pressure or 15 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure compared to the baseline measurements. Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can occur after the 20th week of gestation and is characterized by hypertension and often proteinuria.

The thresholds set for diagnosing preeclampsia are important for early detection and management of the condition to prevent serious maternal and fetal complications. A reading of 140/90 mmHg is a common threshold used in clinical practice, and the increase of 30/15 mmHg helps in identifying women who may have had previously normal blood pressure but are showing signs that suggest the onset of this pregnancy-related hypertensive disorder.

Other options do not meet these clinical criteria. For example, a reading of 130/80 mmHg is within normal limits and does not indicate hypertension. A reading of 120/70 mmHg also reflects normal blood pressure status and would not be considered elevated. While 150/100 mmHg is elevated, it is the definition provided in the second choice that specifically outlines the appropriate classification for preecl