Know Everything About Preeclampsia And Eclampsia
Pregnancy is a beautiful experience; however, it is not easy. An expected mom has to suffer a lot and is prone to several health problems. One of the common health issues associated with pregnancy is Preeclampsia And Eclampsia, which can affect both pregnant woman and baby. If you are expecting a baby or planning, you must know about these disorders. This blog will explain them in detail, including causes, symptoms, and treatment.
What Are Preeclampsia And Eclampsia?
High blood pressure is common during pregnancy, but if it continues, you can experience serious health consequences for you and your baby. Preeclampsia and eclampsia are two high-blood pressure disorders that have noticeable symptoms but are generally treatable. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to control the symptoms and eliminate the risk of serious health problems.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia, formerly called toxemia, is a serious concern in which high blood pressure – approximately 140/90 mm Hg – develops during pregnancy. Other preeclampsia symptoms, such as protein in urine and swelling in the legs, feet, hands, and face, accompany it. Among preeclampsia and eclampsia, preeclampsia happens late in pregnancy, though it can come earlier or post-delivery. According to the March of Dimes, preeclampsia affects 1 out of 25 pregnancies.
Among potential complications of preeclampsia are blood clotting problems and damage to the brain, liver, or kidney to mothers. Risks involved with the baby include preterm birth, low birth weight, and placental abruption.
Eclampsia
Eclampsia is a comparatively rare complication than preeclampsia. The symptoms of preeclampsia and eclampsia are almost the same. It occurs when a woman with preeclampsia develops seizures. Eclampsia typically occurs in the second trimester. According to 2022 research, eclampsia occurs in 1.6 to 10 women out of 10,000 pregnancies.
This health problem affects both pregnant women and babies, causing risks of premature birth, shortness of breath, and organ damage.
Causes Of Preeclampsia And Eclampsia
The actual cause of preeclampsia and eclampsia is not clear yet, but several factors can raise the risk of these health problems during pregnancy.
- Elevated blood pressure
- Autoimmune system
- Cardiovascular conditions
- A family history of preeclampsia
- Being above 35
- Have a multiple pregnancy
- Untreated preeclampsia
Symptoms Of Preeclampsia And Eclampsia
Eclampsia and preeclampsia symptoms are the same. The only difference between them is that eclampsia occurs in women who are already dealing with preeclampsia, or we can say that eclampsia is the severity of preeclampsia. Here are the symptoms of preeclampsia and eclampsia.
- Swelling
- Protein in urine
- Belly pain in the upper right side
- Shoulder pain
- Severe headaches
- Dizziness
- Severe vomiting and nausea
- Trouble in breathing
- Changes in reflexes or mental state
- Sudden weight gain
These are the signs of preeclampsia and eclampsia. If you are experiencing these symptoms, immediately consult your doctor and start your treatment, depending on the severity.
Treatments Of Preeclampsia And Eclampsia
Both preeclampsia and eclampsia require timely medical intervention to eliminate the risks involved with these health problems.
Preeclampsia
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Blood Pressure Management
Controlling blood pressure is one of the best solutions to managing preeclampsia. The lower the blood pressure, the fewer the pregnancy complications.
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Corticosteroids
If the pregnancy is less than 37 weeks, corticosteroids may be administered to fetal lung development in case of an early delivery.
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Magnesium Sulphates
This is used to prevent seizures, particularly in the severe case of preeclampsia, that is eclampsia.
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Frequent Monitoring
To diagnose worsening symptoms, it is important to closely monitor blood pressure, urine protein level, liver, and kidneys.
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Delivery
If your pregnancy is more than 37 weeks, you may be suggested for delivery to reduce the risks, such as death.
Preeclampsia and eclampsia are similar conditions. The right treatment is obtained by consulting a renowned doctor.
Eclampsia
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Immediate Seizure Management
The primary treatment for eclampsia, which means in the stage of preeclampsia, is necessary to control seizures.
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Antihypertensive Therapy
This therapy helps manage blood pressure during pregnancy.
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Urgent Delivery
To treat eclampsia, sometimes prompt delivery of the baby is necessary to protect the mother and child. This may involve induced labour or C-section.
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Intensive Care
Mothers with eclampsia may require intensive care, especially if complications like kidney failure, liver damage, and respiratory issues exist.
Risks & Complications Associated With Preeclampsia And Eclampsia
Preeclampsia and eclampsia are serious pregnancy problems. If you are experiencing the above-mentioned preeclampsia symptoms, check with your doctor immediately to reduce the risks for both mother and baby.
Risks of Preeclampsia
Mother
- Organ Damage
- Stroke
- Placental abruption
- HELLP Syndrome
- Long-term cardiovascular disease
Baby
- Preterm birth
- Intrauterine growth restrictions (IUGR)
- Stillbirth
Risks of Eclampsia
Mother
- Seizures
- Coma
- Organ failure
- Permanent disability
Baby
- Oxygen deprivation
- Premature birth and related complications
- Fetal disease or death
To reduce the chances of preeclampsia and eclampsia risk, a pregnant woman should have a regular checkup and be in touch with a healthcare specialist. Preeclampsia tends to occur in the first pregnancy, and if you have experienced it in the first pregnancy, there are greater chances of developing it in the second pregnancy, too.
Make Your Pregnancy More Beautiful & Healthy
There is no doubt that risks are involved with pregnancy. Preeclampsia and eclampsia are two serious health complications during pregnancy that can even cause death if not treated timely. Practice regular health checkups to monitor your health during pregnancy and avoid its associated risks.
Frequently Asked Question
Can preeclampsia occur after pregnancy?
Yes, preeclampsia can occur after delivery and is a condition known as preeclampsia postpartum. It typically occurs after 48 hours after childbirth. The postpartum preeclampsia symptoms are high blood pressure, headaches, and vision changes, which require medications immediately.
How does preeclampsia affect after pregnancy?
Women who experience preeclampsia in the first pregnancy are at higher risk of developing it in the second. The risk is also higher for women with hypertension and diabetes.
How to prevent preeclampsia?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent preeclampsia, certain measures can reduce the risk of developing this health problem in pregnant women. These include healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet. Additionally, stay in contact with the doctor and consider regular health checkups.
What is a healthy diet for preeclampsia?
Diets high in vegetables, fresh fruits, olive oil, and poultry are associated with reducing PE risks.
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