What is Preeclampsia? Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Prevention
The following article comes from our friends at Nokia for health, and appears in their Pregnancy Tracker program available in the free Health Mate app available for iOS and Android. They are sharing it here to help raise awareness as May is officially preeclampsia awareness month, and this condition is something every pregnant woman needs to be aware of.
What is preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure in women who had normal blood pressure readings before pregnancy. It usually begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy, although it can also occur earlier. If untreated, it can lead to serious complications for both mom and baby.
The exact causes of preeclampsia are unknown. Researchers believe it is related to a placenta that doesn’t function properly due to narrower-than-normal blood vessels sending blood to the organ.
What are the signs of preeclampsia?
It is important to note that preeclampsia can be symptomless. The first common sign of preeclampsia is a rise in blood pressure. Preeclampsia symptoms may also include high levels of protein in the urine, headaches, changes in vision, sudden weight gain, and swelling of the legs, feet, hands, or face.
Risk Factors for Preeclampsia
While preeclampsia can develop in any pregnancy, certain factors can increase the risk:
- First-time mothers: Women in their first pregnancy are at higher risk.
- Previous history of preeclampsia: Those who have had preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy are at greater risk.
- Multiple pregnancies: Carrying twins, triplets, or more.
- Age: Women under 20 or over 40 are more susceptible.
- Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk.
- Medical history: Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, and certain autoimmune diseases like lupus.
- Family history: If your mother or sister had preeclampsia, your risk may be higher.
What complications can arise from preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia can lead to several serious complications, including:
- Fetal growth restriction: Reduced blood flow to the placenta can lead to slow growth of the baby.
- Placental abruption: The placenta can separate from the uterine wall before delivery, causing severe bleeding.
- Preterm birth: Delivery before 37 weeks may be necessary to prevent life-threatening complications.
- Eclampsia: A severe complication that involves seizures in the mother, which can be fatal.
- Organ damage: Can affect organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain, leading to further complications.
Ways to Prevent Preeclampsia
While there is no sure way to prevent preeclampsia, some steps can help reduce the risk:
- Regular prenatal care: Regular check-ups allow your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure and urine protein levels closely.
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet can reduce your risk.
- Aspirin: For those at high risk, low-dose aspirin therapy may be recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Calcium supplementation: May be suggested for women with a calcium deficiency, particularly if they are at high risk for preeclampsia.
- Monitor your blood pressure: You will most likely have your blood pressure taken at your doctor’s appointments, but you can also monitor your blood pressure at home. Contact your care provider if you see a sudden rise in your blood pressure readings, or if your readings indicate a high blood pressure (greater than 140/90 mmHg).
It’s essential to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider to determine the best preventive measures for you.
What happens if preeclampsia is diagnosed?
If you’re diagnosed with preeclampsia, your care provider will likely discuss options with you, including planning the delivery. In fact, the only cure for preeclampsia is delivery. However, if it’s early in the pregnancy, your care provider will likely advise you to continue the pregnancy with more intense care. Expect more frequent prenatal visits, as well as additional blood and ultrasound tests.
Postpartum Preeclampsia
Postpartum preeclampsia is a rare condition that occurs after childbirth. It typically develops within 48 hours after delivery but can sometimes take up to six weeks to manifest. The symptoms are similar to those experienced during pregnancy, including high blood pressure, severe headaches, and vision changes. Treatment often includes medications to lower blood pressure and prevent seizures. It’s critical to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms appear after delivery.
Sources >>
- Mayo Clinic. Diseases and Conditions - Preeclampsia. 2014. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/preeclampsia/basics/definition/con-20031644
- WebMD. Preeclampsia and Eclampsia. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/preeclampsia-eclampsia
