What is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication, characterized by high blood pressure, proteinemia, and swelling in the hands and feet. It usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy and can affect both the mother and the fetus, as it may cause kidney or liver damage.
Symptoms of Preeclampsia (1,2)
Symptoms of preeclampsia vary between individuals and in severity. Some patients can experience symptoms for 6 weeks or more after delivery, while others may be asymptomatic. These symptoms can include:
1. High Blood Pressure
Elevated blood pressure is a primary sign of preeclampsia. Blood pressure readings are higher than 140/90 mm Hg and may exceed 160/110 mm Hg.
2. Proteinuria
A prenatal urine test may reveal excess protein in the urine, indicating kidney dysfunction.
3. Swelling
Pregnancy can cause some normal swelling; however, severe and sudden swelling of the hands, feet, and face, which can be disproportional, can occur due to preeclampsia.
4. Severe Headaches
Preeclampsia can cause severe headaches that are unresponsive to treatment.
5. Visual Disturbances
Blurry vision, sensitivity to light, seeing spots, flashing, and temporary vision loss can all be signs of preeclampsia, caused by increased pressure in the eye vessels.
6. Abdominal Pain
Upper right abdominal pain, usually below the ribs, can be caused by liver impairment resulting from preeclampsia. Patients describe the pain as sharp and persistent.
7. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting, along with other symptoms like severe headaches, can occur during the last stages of pregnancy, which can also be signs of preeclampsia.
Treatment of Preeclampsia (3,4)
The only cure for preeclampsia is delivering the baby, depending on the severity and the gestational age of the fetus, along with regular monitoring of blood pressure readings during the pregnancy. However, treatment approaches can help control the symptoms of preeclampsia until childbirth, including:
1. Medications
Antihypertensive medications, such as labetalol, can be prescribed to control blood pressure and prevent complications like stroke. Furthermore, Magnesium sulfate can be given to help prevent eclampsia; a serious complication that causes seizures.
The healthcare provider outweighs the risks and benefits before recommending any medications to pregnant women with serious conditions like preeclampsia.
2. Rest and Monitoring
The mother must rest and be closely monitored during this condition. She can be hospitalized for constant blood pressure monitoring, regular urine tests, ultrasound checks, and to ensure the baby is healthy.
3. Lifestyle Modifications
The mother should follow a diet low in salt and increase water intake to help manage symptoms of preeclampsia.
References
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/preeclampsia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355745
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17952-preeclampsia
- https://www.webmd.com/baby/what-is-preeclampsia
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pre-eclampsia/treatment/
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