Pre-eclampsia is a potentially serious complication of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, most often the liver and kidneys. It typically begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women whose blood pressure had been normal. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia is crucial because timely detection and intervention can prevent complications.
Here are some of the signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia:
- High Blood Pressure (>140/90): A persistent systolic reading of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic reading of 90 mm Hg or higher on two occasions at least four hours apart is a primary sign.
- Proteinuria: The presence of excess protein in the urine.
- Swelling (Edema): Particularly in the hands and face. Note that mild foot and ankle swelling is a common pregnancy symptom and might not necessarily indicate pre-eclampsia.
- Sudden Weight Gain: A rapid weight gain over a short period, like more than 1kg a week.
- Severe Headaches: Persistent and possibly throbbing headaches that don’t go away with simple measures like rest or over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Vision Problems: Including blurred vision, light sensitivity, or seeing spots or flashing lights. Temporary vision loss or blindness can also occur.
- Nausea or Vomiting: This is especially concerning when it’s a sudden onset in the second half of pregnancy and not associated with typical morning sickness.
- Abdominal Pain: Usually felt in the upper abdomen, below the ribs, often on the right side.
- Decreased Urine Output: Less frequent urination or a noticeably reduced amount of urine.
- Impaired Liver Function: Indicated by symptoms like pain in the upper right part of the abdomen and increased liver enzymes on blood tests.
- Shortness of Breath: Caused by fluid in the lungs.
- Decreased Platelet Count: This can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Pain in the Shoulders: Sometimes described as a dull ache.
- Feeling Very Unwell or Increased Anxiety.
Pre-eclampsia can quickly become a severe condition that can lead to significant complications for both mother and baby, including organ damage, premature birth, and, in extreme cases, death. Some women with pre-eclampsia can develop a more severe form known as eclampsia, which is pre-eclampsia accompanied by seizures.
Recurrence Risk
Research suggests the risk of having preeclampsia again is approximately 20%, however experts cite a range from 5% to 80% depending on how severe it was, and additional risk factors a patient may have.