Preeclampsia Facts

Preeclampsia is also called pregnancy-induced hypertension, toxemia of pregnancy, or acute hypertensive disease of pregnancy. Preeclampsia acts as a disorder that occurs during pregnancy, which is related to pregnancy-induced hypertension. Characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine, preeclampsia usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy. Sometimes referred to as pregnancy toxemia, preeclampsia can range from mild to severe.

In severe cases, preeclampsia can be very dangerous to both mother and baby. The mother could develop seizures and, due to the possibility of a low platelet count caused by the disease, could hemorrhage. In the meantime the baby would be living in a hostile environment due to the elevated
blood pressure. There would be a reduced level of blood flow to the baby, which would result in areduced flow of oxygen and nourishment.

A family history of diabetes is also cause for concern; women whose sisters, mothers, aunts or grandmothers got preeclampsia should also be careful. Moreover, the possibility of getting preeclampsia increases relative to the woman's age; the older she is, the higher the risk, particularly if the woman is over 40. However, early pregnancies are just as at risk as late ones.

If your doctor diagnoses you with Preeclampsia, you will be closely monitored and you should be ready for an early delivery. Constant monitoring of mother and child is crucial for ensuring the safety of both. Bed rest or hospitalization may be recommended based on the progression of the disorder. You may be given magnesium sulfate to help keep eclampsia at bay. The only real cure for Preeclampsia is delivery.

Aside from hypertension, other signs and symptoms of preeclampsia are proteinuria (protein in the urine, usually an indication of kidney disease) after 20 weeks of pregnancy, and edema (swelling) of the hands, feet and face.The patient may also experience severe headaches, temporary vision loss or blurred vision, nausea and vomiting, dizziness and sudden weight gain.

Other risk factors for preeclampsia include:

Becoming pregnant as a teen or over 40
- High blood pressure before pregnancy
- Obesity
- Multiple pregnancy
- History of diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, kidney disorders, or diabetes

Preeclampsia will typically occur in the middle to late pregnancy, although it may arrive sooner.Women who gain more than three pounds a week during the second trimester or more than a pound a week during the third trimester of pregnancy should consult a physician about the possibility of preeclampsia.

It is also important to moderate your salt intake and during pregnancy. Once developed preeclampsia rest is important, sometimes with medication and lie on your side is recommended to encourage the flow of blood to the baby. If blood pressure gets too high they need hospitalization and induce labor to prevent seizures, liver damage, kidney or bleeding.

You might be able to reduce the chances of experiencing this condition by following some simple tips. Decreasing the amount of stress and anxiety in your life can definitely make a difference. Try calming music before going to bed and do not worry yourself about everyday situations. Remember being worried does not solve any problem, it will just cause more.