Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a condition that may occur during pregnancy. This medical condition's key indicators are high or elevated blood pressure and large amounts of protein in the urine after the 20th week of pregnancy.

Left untreated, preeclampsia can become very dangerous and sometimes, even fatal to both the pregnant mother and her unborn child.

The only "cure" for preeclampsia is delivery. Since diagnosis of preeclampsia sometimes occurs before a baby has reach the stage of viability, other measures; such as bed-rest, medication and being closely monitored, must be taken to allow an unborn child to mature. In severe cases of preeclampsia, hospitalization is sometimes necessary to allow for constant medical supervision.

• A history of preeclampsia - If you have had preeclampsia before or there is a strong family history of preeclampsia, your risk for developing the condition is greater than normal.

• First pregnancy – Your first pregnancy carries a higher risk of being affected by preeclampsia than later pregnancies.

• First pregnancy with a new partner – Even if you’ve had other pregnancies without preeclampsia, a first time pregnancy with a new partner elevates your chances of getting preeclampsia.

• Obesity – Women who have a BMI of 30% or higher are more likely to be diagnosed with preeclampsia than women who have a normal BMI.

• Multiple gestation – Carrying two of more fetuses elevates a woman’s risks of developing preeclampsia.

• Age – Being over the age of 40 or under the age of 18 increases the likelihood of having preeclampsia.

• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome – Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS is a condition that affects fertility. Women who have this condition have small cysts in the ovaries. Having this condition places you in the high risk category for developing preeclampsia.

• Autoimmune Disorders – Autoimmune disorders; such as Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and MS (Multiple Sclerosis) increase your risks of developing preeclampsia.

• High Blood Pressure – Women who have chronic high blood pressure or even elevated blood pressure before conception are at a greater risk of developing preeclampsia than women whose blood pressure is normal.

• Hypertension – High blood pressure is one of the key indicators of a problem during pregnancy. Even a slightly elevated blood pressure should be taken seriously as preeclampsia can come on slowly and then progress into a dangerous stage.

• Headaches – Most women who suffer with preeclampsia report headaches that refuse to subside or that are very frequent.

• Changes in Vision – A change if your normal vision is another key indicator that preeclampsia may be present. The changes in vision caused by preeclampsia can vary greatly between slightly blurred vision, seeing spots or flashes of light, an aversion or sensitivity to light that may or may not resemble migraine headaches and on the extreme side, complete temporary loss of vision.

• Becoming dizzy – Many pregnant women who are affected by preeclampsia report having episodes of feeling dizzy or faint.

• Abdominal Pain – Abdominal pain located underneath the ribs on your right side is often a symptom of preeclampsia.

• Urinating Less – During pregnancy, it’s expected that women urinate more often due to the weight of the baby placing pressure upon the bladder. When that amount of urine is lessened; especially if there is a dramatic change, this could be an indication of preeclampsia. This is a symptom of preeclampsia that is sometimes difficult for women to recognize as frequent bathroom trips may still be occurring; even when the actual quantity of urine is much less than normal.

• Protein in Urine – Proteinuria; or excessive amounts of protein in the urine is the main indicator to your doctor or gynecologist that a patient is suffering from preeclampsia.

• Edema – Edema or swelling has long been associated with pregnancy. While some swelling is normal, excessive swelling is not. Any swelling that does not go away relatively quickly with rest may indicate preeclampsia. Edema in the face and hands should be paid special attention to.

• Weight Gain– Weight gain is expected in all pregnancies; however, if weight gain is rapid there is an issue. Preeclampsia usually causes edema (or swelling) that leads to some weight gain. Excessive weight gain that occurs over a few days is very serious.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have preeclampsia, please consult your doctor.

• MayoClinic.com: Preeclampsia: Treatment

• Alive: Pre-eclampsia

• Preeclampsia Foundation: Forums | Our Stories