Preeclampsia and Eclampsia

What Is Preeclampsia?
Formerly called toxemia, preeclampsia is a condition that pregnant women develop. It is
marked by high blood pressure in women who have previously not experienced high
blood pressure before. Preeclamptic women will have a high level of protein in their
urine and often also have swelling in the feet, legs, and hands. This condition usually
appears late in pregnancy, generally after the 20 week mark, although it can occur
earlier.
If undiagnosed, preeclampsia can lead to eclampsia, a serious condition that can put
you and your baby at risk, and in rare cases, cause death. Women with preeclampsia
who have seizures are considered to have eclampsia.
There's no way to cure preeclampsia, and that can be a scary prospect for moms-to-be.
But you can help protect yourself by learning the symptoms of preeclampsia and by
seeing your doctor for regular prenatal care. When preeclampsia is caught early, it's
easier to manage.

What Causes Preeclampsia?

The exact causes of preeclampsia and eclampsia -- a result of a placenta that doesn't
function properly -- are not known, although some researchers suspect poor nutrition or
high body fat are possible causes. Insufficient blood flow to the uterus could be
associated. Genetics plays a role, as well.

Who Is at Risk for Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is most often seen in first-time pregnancies, in pregnantteens, and in
women over 40. While it is defined as occurring in women have never had high blood
pressure before, other risk factors include:

A history of high blood pressure prior to pregnancy

A history of preeclampsia
Having a mother or sister who had preeclampsia
A history of obesity
Carrying more than one baby

History of diabetes, kidney disease, lupus, or rheumatoid

arthritis

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Preeclampsia?

In addition to swelling, protein in the urine, and high blood pressure,preeclampsia
symptoms can include:

Rapid weight gain caused by a significant increase in bodily fluid

Abdominal pain
Severe headaches
Change in reflexes
Reduced urine or no urine output

Dizziness
Excessive vomiting and nausea
Vision changes

You should seek care right away if you have:

Sudden and new swelling in your face, hands, and eyes (some

feet and ankle swelling is normal during pregnancy.)

Blood pressure greater than 140/90.
Sudden weight gain over 1 or 2 days
Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side
Severe headaches
A decrease in urine
Blurry vision, flashing lights, and floaters

You can also have preeclampsia and not have any symptoms. That's why it's so
important to see your doctor for regular blood pressure checks and urine tests.