What is preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia
is
one
of
the
hypertensive disorders that occurs in
pregnancy. It is a pregnancy-specific
condition that generally develops late
in pregnancy (after week 20), and is
characterized by a sudden onset of
high
blood
pressure,
excessive
swelling (edema), and protein in the
urine.

Severe continuous headaches that

doesnt respond to over-thecounter pain relievers
Sudden excessive weight gain
Nausea and/or vomiting
Blurred or double vision
Pain in the upper abdomen
A rise in blood pressure
Protein in the urine
Scant urine output
Exaggerated reflex reactions
Seizure
HELLP syndrome that can lead to
liver damage or stroke

How common is it?

Preeclampsia
is
affecting
approximately 5-8% of the pregnant
women. When preeclampsia becomes
severe, it can be a serious life
threatening condition for the both
mother and baby.

The treatment includes bed rest, and

careful blood pressure and fetal
monitoring.
Mother with severe preeclampsia of
less than 34 weeks will be required
hospital bed rest. They will be treated
with the medications for hypertension
and intravenous magnesium sulfate to
prevent seizure.
If the pregnancy is week 34 or greater,
the mother will most likely give birth
promptly.
Signs and symptoms disappear quickly
after the birth of baby and placenta.

How does it affect the baby?

Premature birth
It can reduce blood flow to the
mothers placenta, causing
restriction of the babys growth

How can I prevent it?

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment
can save both mom and babys life.
Low-dose aspirin starting before 16
weeks of gestation is likely to reduce
the risk if mother is high-risk. Some
high risks include: First pregnancy,
mother age younger than 20 or older
than 40, obesity, chronic hypertension,
chronic kidney disease, or diabetes.

What are the signs & symptoms?

Mother with mild preeclampsia may not
notice any symptoms, or have only
mild swelling of hands or feet.
Symptoms of severe preeclampsia can
include any or all of the following:

How is preeclampsia treated?

Appropriate health and lifestyle are

recommended the mother who has
suffered from preeclampsia due to risk
of recurring hypertensive disorder in

pregnancy and cardiovascular disease

late in life.