Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is generally develops after the 20th week of pregnancy with increased blood pressure and release of protein in the mother's urine (as a result of kidney problems). Preeclampsia can affect both mother (her kidney, liver and brain get affected) and the placenta.

Eclampsia

When seizure develops during preeclampsia, the condition is called as eclampsia, the second leading cause of maternal death.

Prevent preeclampsia

There is no proven method to prevent or avoid preeclampsia. So those who develop signs of preeclampsia, are closely monitored to reduce or avoid related complications. The one and only way to cure preeclampsia is to deliver the baby.

Preeclampsia risk factors

• Having chronic hypertension or pre-existent (hypertension before pregnancy).
• Have had hypertension or preeclampsia during their previous pregnancy.
• Obesity or over weight prior to pregnancy.
• Pregnancy under the age of 20 or over the age of 40.
• Women who gave birth more than one baby.
• Having diabetes, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or scleroderma.

Preeclampsia diagnosis

There is no known single test to diagnose preeclampsia. The key diagnoses are increased blood pressure and protein in the urine. Common symptoms of preeclampsia include persistent headaches, blurred vision, light sensitivity and abdominal pain.

All of these preeclampsia symptoms are common even in healthy pregnancies. Regular visits to doctor’s office and tracking of the blood pressure and protein level in the urine are the suggested procedures to help diagnose preeclampsia in time.