The Facts About Preeclampsia in Pregnancy

Identifying the Signs and Symptoms of Preeclampsia

Oct 15, 2009 Lisa Simonelli Rennie

Preeclampsia, or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, is a very serious pregnancy complication that requires immediate treatment.

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that is also referred to as 'toxemia." It is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine and sudden swelling, usually in the second half of pregnancy (1).

Preeclampsia can range from mild to severe. Although it cannot be cured, it can be treated and managed. It is vital to treat this condition as early as possible due to the lack of blood flow to the placenta, which is dangerous for the baby. This condition develops in about 5-10% of pregnancies (1).

Signs and Symptoms of Preeclampsia

The following are the most common signs of the onset of preeclampsia (1):

  • Sudden swelling of the hands and face
  • Sudden weight gain
  • High blood pressure
  • Protein in the urine
  • Blurred Vision
  • Headaches
  • Irritability
  • Confusion
  • Gastric pain
  • Abnormal kidney and liver function

Risk Factors

Preeclampsia is most common in first-time pregnancies. Research suggests that the key factor in an increased risk of developing preeclampsia is increased maternal age. Other significant risk factors include (2):

  • Previous history of preeclampsia
  • Family history of the disorder
  • Being overweight
  • Multiple pregnancies (i.e. twins or triplets)
  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome
  • History of chronic high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disorder
  • Lupus or other autoimmune disorders

Treatment

Some studies suggest that taking a low dosage of aspirin or large doses of calcium can help to prevent developing preeclampsia, though further research is required (1).

Treatment for preeclampsia will initially consist of bedrest. This will allow for the most efficient functioning of the kidneys and blood flow to the uterus (3). The blood pressure will be monitored regularly. If it gets too high, anti- hypertensive medication may be prescribed.

Other recommendations will include (3):

  • Lie on the left side
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Avoid salty foods
  • Avoid diuretics such as coffee
  • Keep weight in check

Eclampsia

If the preeclampsia is not treated promptly or properly, it can develop into a more serious condition called eclampsia. This is characterized by convulsions, seizures, extremely high blood pressure, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness and fever (1).

If this happens, the only option may be to have labor induced and the baby delivered (usually by c-section) once the condition is stabilized. If treated properly and early, the survival rate is 98% (1). Careful monitoring by a doctor will be required afterwards.

The key is to pay attention to the signs the body is giving, and to seek medical attention right away if any abnormal, sudden symptoms arise.

For more pregnancy-related information, please visit: www.complete-pregnancy-guide.com

References:

1. Eisenberg et al, What To Expect When you're Expecting, 1991

2. preeclampsia.org

3. Curtis, Glade B., M.D, OB/GYN, Your Pregnancy Week By Week,1997

The copyright of the article The Facts About Preeclampsia in Pregnancy in Pregnancy & Childbirth is owned by Lisa Simonelli Rennie. Permission to republish The Facts About Preeclampsia in Pregnancy in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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