Also known as: Preeclampsia (Toxemia of Pregnancy)
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, most commonly affecting the liver and kidneys. It typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can be life-threatening.
Preeclampsia affects approximately 2-8% of pregnancies worldwide and is a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. It is responsible for an estimated 76,000 maternal deaths and 500,000 fetal and neonatal deaths annually.
The exact cause remains incompletely understood, but it is thought to involve abnormal placental development leading to widespread endothelial dysfunction. This results in hypertension, proteinuria, and damage to multiple organ systems including the liver, kidneys, brain, and blood clotting system.
Preeclampsia is classified as mild (blood pressure at or above 140/90 mmHg with proteinuria) or severe (blood pressure at or above 160/110 mmHg with additional features such as thrombocytopenia, liver dysfunction, renal insufficiency, pulmonary edema, or cerebral/visual symptoms).
The only definitive treatment is delivery of the baby and placenta. Management involves balancing the risks of prematurity against the risks of continuing the pregnancy with worsening maternal disease. Low-dose aspirin (81-162 mg) started before 16 weeks may reduce risk in high-risk women.
People with Preeclampsia often experience the following symptoms.
Blood pressure at or above 140/90 mmHg on two occasions at least 4 hours apart, developing after 20 weeks of gestation in a previously normotensive woman.
Excess protein in the urine (300 mg or more in a 24-hour collection or protein/creatinine ratio at or above 0.3), indicating kidney involvement.
Persistent, severe headache not relieved by usual analgesics, and visual disturbances including blurred vision, scotomata (blind spots), or flashing lights may indicate cerebral involvement.
Right upper quadrant or epigastric pain from liver capsule distension due to hepatic edema or hemorrhage. This may be a sign of HELLP syndrome.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Preeclampsia.
Common approaches to managing preeclampsia. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
The definitive treatment is delivery of the baby and placenta. For severe preeclampsia at or beyond 34 weeks, or at any gestational age with life-threatening features, delivery is typically recommended.
Administered intravenously to prevent eclamptic seizures in women with severe preeclampsia. It is one of the most important interventions in managing the condition.
Labetalol, nifedipine, or hydralazine to control severe hypertension (above 160/110 mmHg) and reduce the risk of stroke or placental abruption.
For preeclampsia without severe features before 37 weeks, close monitoring with regular blood tests, blood pressure checks, and fetal surveillance may allow pregnancy prolongation.
Diagnosis requires new-onset hypertension after 20 weeks plus proteinuria or other signs of end-organ damage (thrombocytopenia, renal insufficiency, impaired liver function, pulmonary edema, or cerebral/visual symptoms). Regular blood pressure monitoring and urine testing during prenatal care are essential.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe headache, visual disturbances (blurred vision, seeing spots), upper abdominal pain (especially right side), sudden swelling, or shortness of breath during pregnancy.
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening preeclampsia.
Low-dose aspirin (81 mg daily) from 12-16 weeks in high-risk women
Regular prenatal care with blood pressure monitoring
Calcium supplementation in populations with low calcium intake
Maintaining a healthy weight before pregnancy
If left untreated or poorly managed, preeclampsia may lead to:
Low-dose aspirin started before 16 weeks of pregnancy has been shown to reduce risk by approximately 17% in high-risk women. Regular prenatal care allows early detection and management.
Symptoms typically resolve within days to weeks after delivery. However, blood pressure monitoring should continue postpartum, and preeclampsia can occasionally develop or worsen in the first week after delivery.
Women who have had preeclampsia have an increased long-term risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, and kidney disease. Regular cardiovascular screening is recommended.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.