Pre-eclampsia

What is pre-eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia is a condition during pregnancy, which is marked by high blood pressure and high levels of protein in the urine.

What is eclampsia?

• Eclampsia is the final stage of untreated pre-eclampsia and can result in convulsions, coma and even death of the mother and/or the foetus.
• Eclampsia often results in seizures.

Causes

Exact causes are unknown but researchers suspect poor nutrition, obesity and insufficient blood flow to the uterus and placenta.

Risk factors

Pregnant women are particularly at risk if they:

• Are first-time mothers.
• Fall pregnant during their teen years.
• Are older than 40 years.
• Had chronic hypertension prior to pregnancy.
• Have a family history of pre-eclampsia.
• Have had multiple pregnancies.
• Are obese.
• Have had pre-eclampsia in previous pregnancies.
• Suffer from chronic conditions prior to pregnancy, e.g. lupus, kidney conditions, diabetes and arthritis.

Possible signs and symptoms

• High blood pressure
• Protein and/or blood in the urine
• Rapid weight gain

Symptoms in patients with pre-eclampsia that need immediate attention from your doctor:

• Abdominal pain.
• Persistent headaches.
• Swelling of the upper body.
• Dizziness or drowsiness.
• Excessive vomiting/nausea.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Double or blurred vision or sudden blindness.
• Seeing flashing lights.

Treatment

• This condition needs to be managed by your obstetrician.
• Delivery of the baby relieves the condition and is the best way to protect both the mother and baby.
• If the condition occurs early in your pregnancy, bed rest, activity restriction and close monitoring is advised.
• Medication may be taken to control blood pressure.
• Magnesium infusions or injections may be taken to prevent seizures.
• Strict monitoring of fluid balance.
• Hospitalisation is usually necessary.

Pre-eclampsia is a very serious condition and can be life threatening if you do not attend to it. It is therefore very important to go for your regular checkups. Note that your doctor needs to check your blood pressure and urine with every visit.

Resources:

1. Pregnancy: Preeclampsia and Eclampsia

2. Health & Baby: Preeclampsia and Eclampsia

3. Family Doctor.Org: Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension