HealthPartners - Your guide to pregnancy

Health Complications Eclampsia is a complication of preeclampsia that causes seizures and stroke. People who have preeclampsia or eclampsia are at higher risk to develop HELLP Syndrome ( H emolysis, E levated L iver enzymes and L ow P latelets). Because this syndrome is serious and can lead to liver rupture, stroke, or even death, it is critically important to catch it early. In addition to high blood pressure and protein in the urine, abnormal blood tests can help confirm the diagnosis. You are at a higher risk for developing preeclampsia if you: • Have a history of high blood pressure,

kidney disease, diabetes, or obesity • Are over age 35 or under age 20 • Are carrying more than 1 baby • Are carrying your first baby • Are black or African American • Had it before (or a family member did) • Have polycystic ovarian syndrome • Have lupus or other autoimmune disorders • Underwent in-vitro fertilization • Have sickle cell disease

PREECLAMPSIA Preeclampsia is the leading cause of death for women and babies worldwide. What is preeclampsia? It’s a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system in your body, most often your liver and kidneys. Preeclampsia usually starts after 20 weeks of pregnancy, although it can also appear after the birth of your baby. There is no screening test to predict who will develop preeclampsia, and it can occur even if your blood pressure has been normal. That’s why it is vital that you attend every prenatal visit with your health care provider, especially in the later months of your pregnancy. Some preeclampsia warning signs, like high blood pressure, can occur without you knowing or feeling them. If your blood pressure is high during a regular checkup, your health provider will check the protein level in your urine. If the protein level is also high, you may be diagnosed with preeclampsia and need to have more blood tests to check your platelet level and liver and kidney function. Outcomes for people who develop preeclampsia are better if it is diagnosed and treated early. And you may still be able to have a vaginal birth. But if there are problems during labor or with the baby, you may need to have a cesarean birth.

WARNING!

Preeclampsia is very dangerous, but it can be treated if caught early. If you have ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS or something just doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and call your health care provider right away!

Preeclampsia signs and symptoms • High blood pressure

• Protein in urine (not required for diagnosis) • Sudden weight gain of 3-5 lbs. in 1 week • Swelling of your hands and face, especially around eyes • Headache that won’t go away after taking pain medication • Vision changes: flashing lights, seeing spots, light sensitivity • Sudden onset of nausea or vomiting • Upper right abdominal pain that feels like indigestion • Shortness of breath, confusion, or anxiety

44 Your Guide to A Healthy Pregnancy