Pregnancy is a journey filled with many changes, not only for your growing family but for your body. One rare complication to be aware of is preeclampsia. Understanding what it is, its common symptoms, why it’s concerning, and when to seek help can empower you during your pregnancy.

What is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a life-threatening pregnancy complication that can occur during pregnancy or after delivery. The condition is most commonly characterized by rapidly rising high blood pressure, which can damage other organ systems or lead to seizure or stroke. Preeclampsia can lead to serious, even fatal, complications for both you and your baby if it’s not monitored and managed.

What is Preeclampsia WFMC

Common Symptoms of Preeclampsia

The tricky part about preeclampsia is that it can start without any noticeable symptoms, which is why attending regular prenatal appointments is crucial. However, there are several symptoms to watch for, including:

  • High blood pressure is a key sign of preeclampsia. Since high blood pressure can be silent, regular check-ups are essential.
  • Protein in urine or other kidney problems are other indicators that can be detected through a urine test during prenatal visits.
  • Severe headaches
  • Changes in vision, which can include temporary loss of vision, light sensitivity, or blurry vision.
  • Upper abdominal pain, mainly presenting under the right side of your ribcage
  • Nausea or vomiting in the second half of pregnancy
  • Decreased urine output
  • Sudden swelling in your hands and face may be a sign of preeclamsia

Why Preeclampsia is Concerning

Preeclampsia is concerning because it can affect the blood flow to the placenta, which means your baby might not get enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to low birth weight or premature birth. In more severe instances, it may lead to additional complications such as placental abruption—which is when the placenta separates itself from your uterus before birth. For the mother, untreated preeclampsia can lead to serious complications such as seizures (a condition known as eclampsia), stroke, organ damage or failure, and even death.

When to Get Help

If you experience any of the symptoms of preeclampsia, especially sudden swelling, severe headaches, vision changes, or upper abdominal pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Preeclampsia requires close monitoring to manage the symptoms and minimize complications. In some cases, early delivery may be necessary to protect the health of both the mother and the baby.

While preeclampsia can be a concerning condition, the key to managing it lies in early detection and regular prenatal care. By being aware of the symptoms and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, you can navigate this complication more effectively.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your health care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.