Which of the following is a symptom of gestational hypertension?

• A. Constipation.
• B. Edema.
• C. Frequent headaches.
• D. Increased fetal heart rate.

Answer: (B)

Edema, or swelling, is a common symptom associated with gestational hypertension, a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy. This swelling often occurs in the hands, feet, and face due to fluid retention and increased pressure within blood vessels, which can be exacerbated by the heightened blood pressure related to gestational hypertension.

It's important to recognize that while other options may have associations with pregnancy, they do not specifically indicate gestational hypertension. For instance, constipation can be a common issue during pregnancy but is not directly related to high blood pressure. Frequent headaches can occur for various reasons during pregnancy, but they are not exclusive to gestational hypertension. As for increased fetal heart rate, it is typically monitored for signs of fetal distress rather than as a direct symptom of maternal conditions like gestational hypertension. Therefore, swelling, or edema, stands out as a relevant and recognized symptom of this condition.