Preeclampsia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Preeclampsia is a serious condition that affects some pregnant women, usually after the 20th week of pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and signs of organ damage. Preeclampsia can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby, so a healthcare provider should monitor and treat it closely. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of preeclampsia.
Causes of Preeclampsia
The exact cause of preeclampsia is not known, but it is thought to involve problems with the placenta, which is the organ that connects the mother and the baby and provides nutrients and oxygen to the baby. Some factors that may increase the risk of developing preeclampsia include:
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Having a first pregnancy or a new partner
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Having a family history of preeclampsia
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Having a history of high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders
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Being obese or having a multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.)
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Being older than 35 years or younger than 20 years
Symptoms of Preeclampsia
Many women with preeclampsia do not have any noticeable symptoms, and the condition is often detected during routine prenatal visits. However, some signs and symptoms that may indicate preeclampsia are:
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High blood pressure (higher than 140/90 mmHg)
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Protein in the urine (proteinuria) or other signs of kidney problems
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Swelling of the hands, feet, and face (edema)
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Rapid weight gain due to fluid retention
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Severe headaches
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Changes in vision, such as blurred vision, light sensitivity, or seeing spots
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Pain in the upper abdomen, usually on the right side
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Nausea or vomiting
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Shortness of breath, caused by fluid in the lungs
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Decreased urine output or no urine output
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Impaired liver function
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Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are severe or sudden, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately or go to an emergency room.
Diagnosis of Preeclampsia
The diagnosis of preeclampsia is determined by analyzing your blood pressure and urine for protein during each prenatal visit. If you have high blood pressure and proteinuria, you have preeclampsia. If you have high blood pressure but no proteinuria, you may have gestational hypertension, a less severe form of high blood pressure during pregnancy. You will need to be closely monitored if you have gestational hypertension as it may lead to preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia can also be diagnosed by performing blood tests to determine the severity and complications of the condition. These tests can help determine the severity and risk of complications. Additionally, you may have an ultrasound to check the growth and well-being of your baby, as well as a nonstress test or a biophysical profile to monitor your baby's heart rate, movements, breathing, and amniotic fluid level.
Treatment of Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia can only be treated by delivering the baby, but this may not be the best option if your baby is not fully developed. In order to treat preeclampsia properly, you must consider how severe it is, how far along you are in your pregnancy, and how your baby is doing. The main goals of treatment are to control your blood pressure, avoid seizures, and manage any complications.
With mild preeclampsia, you may be able to stay at home and monitor your blood pressure and urine. You may also need to take some medications to lower your blood pressure and prevent blood clots. You will need to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid salt and caffeine. To check your condition and the health of your baby, you will need to see your healthcare provider more often and have frequent tests.
You will need intravenous fluids and medications if you have severe preeclampsia. Additionally, magnesium sulfate may be prescribed in order to prevent seizures (eclampsia), a life-threatening complication of preeclampsia. A corticosteroid may also be prescribed to help improve your liver function, platelet count, and the lung maturity of your baby. In case of worsening preeclampsia or fetal distress, you will be closely monitored.
If your preeclampsia is very severe or if your baby is in danger, you may need to deliver your baby as soon as possible, even if you are only 37 weeks pregnant. It may be done by inducing labor or by performing a cesarean section (C-section). Premature delivery can pose some risks and complications, including breathing problems, bleeding in the brain, infection, or low blood sugar. Your healthcare provider will discuss the risks and benefits of early delivery with you.
Prevention of Preeclampsia
There is no sure way to prevent preeclampsia, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk and have a healthy pregnancy. These include:
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Getting regular prenatal care and following your healthcare provider’s advice
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Eating a balanced diet that is low in salt and high in calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin E
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Drinking enough water and staying hydrated
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Exercising moderately and regularly, as recommended by your healthcare provider
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Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs
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Managing any chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease
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Taking low-dose aspirin, if prescribed by your healthcare provider
It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia and to seek medical attention if you have any concerns. Preeclampsia is a serious condition that affects both mother and baby. Preeclampsia can affect the pregnancy and delivery of most women if properly diagnosed, treated, and monitored.
