
- nurturingpetals
- February 4, 2025
Pregnancy is a wonderful and joyous experience for all new mothers. However, complications are also bound to occur, including high blood pressure. Preeclampsia is a condition that affects pregnant women, characterised by abnormally high blood pressure and can even affect organs. It is a serious disease that needs timely medical intervention. However, there is a lack of awareness and knowledge surrounding this topic.
In this blog, we will discuss preeclampsia in detail, including causes, symptoms, risk factors, and most importantly, how do you manage and prevent it. We aim to provide you all the necessary information to ensure a safe pregnancy.
A] What Causes Preeclampsia?
The exact cause of preeclampsia is still not known to modern medicine. However, experts believe there could be multiple causes of preeclampsia. Most leading research papers attribute improper development of the placenta as the root cause.
The placenta is an organ that nourishes the feutus and provides oxygen during the pregnancy. In some cases, the blood vessels in the placenta are narrower than normal, causing limited blood flow. The problems with blood reaching the placenta properly can translate to improper regulation of blood pressure in the mother.
B] How Do You Recognise The Symptoms Of Preeclampsia?
There are not many visible signs of preeclampsia. Most patients are made aware of its existence during routine prenatal checkups. Some common signs and symptoms of preeclampsia include:
- High Blood Pressure: Sudden high blood pressure during the third trimester is the most important sign of preeclampsia.
- Proteinuria: Excess protein content in urine and other signs of kidney damage.
- Thrombocytopenia: Abnormal blood vessel damage leading to faster platelet consumption and lower platelet count.
- Liver Problems: Poor blood supply during preeclampsia can cause liver damage, indicated by increased liver enzymes.
- Headache and Vision Problems: Temporary loss of vision, blurred vision, or light sensitivity along with chronic headaches during the third trimester.
Other Problems: Problems like nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and chronic pain under the ribs can be a sign of preeclampsia and need to be checked as soon as possible.
C] Who Is At Risk Of Developing Preeclampsia?
- People with diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney disease are at a higher risk.
- Carrying more than two babies at once can put the mother’s health at risk.
- Obesity heightens the risk of blood pressure and preeclampsia.
- A person with a family history of preeclampsia is more likely to develop it.
- Women above the age of thirty-five.
D] How Is Preeclampsia Diagnosed?
Preeclampsia can be diagnosed through:
- Blood Test: Blood tests during prenatal checkups can help identify liver and kidney problems linked to preeclampsia. Doctors also take notice of the number of blood platelets.
- Urine Analysis: If your doctor has suspicion of preeclampsia, they will conduct a urine test to see if your kidneys are working well. They may ask for a urine sample of either 24 hours or at random.
Foetal Ultrasound: Foetal ultrasound helps to determine the baby’s weight and the amount of fluid in the uterus. It also showcases your child’s health and growth.
E] What Complications Does Preeclampsia Cause?
- A combination of haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count (HELLP syndrome).
- Restricted blood flow to placenta, causing breathing difficulties, stunted growth, and premature birth for the baby.
- The placenta may separate from the uterus and lead to heavy bleeding, putting the mother and the child’s life in danger.
- The mother may develop eclampsia which could cause coma, permanent brain damage, and fatality, if left untreated.
F] How Do You Prevent Preeclampsia?
- Drink around three to four litres of water a day.
- Avoid fried and processed foods that are high in calories.
- Minimise total salt intake to recommend levels.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine intake.
- Stay active and exercise daily after consulting the doctor.
While preeclampsia is not completely preventable due to genetic factors, the above precautions can help.
Also Read: Benefits of Exercise in Pregnancy.
G] How Is Preeclampsia Treated?
At Nurturing Petals, we decide the best course of action depending on the severity of your condition and how far you are in your pregnancy. The best course of action is often to deliver the baby and then monitor the mother’s health. However, if your condition isn’t severe, we recommend you to complete the full pregnancy term.
In case of severe preeclampsia:
- You need to constantly monitor your blood pressure.
- You need to visit for prenatal checkups more frequently, including urine tests and sonography.
- You will be prescribed antihypertensive drugs to keep blood pressure under control.
- You will be given anticonvulsant drugs to prevent seizures.
- If the baby’s lung development is compromised, you may also be recommended corticosteroids.
Conclusion
Preeclampsia is a serious yet manageable pregnancy complication that requires timely medical attention. Being aware of its causes, symptoms, risks, and treatments can help to make informed decisions. Make sure to drink plenty of water, eat clean, and lead a healthy and active lifestyle to minimise chances of developing preeclampsia.
At Nurturing Petals, we tailor your treatment plan according to the severity of your condition and pregnancy. We prioritise the health and safety of both the mother and the baby. If you are an expecting mother or planning to conceive, get in touch with our clinic today! We provide complete information and comprehensive treatment to ensure healthy pregnancy.
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Dr. Milind Chauhan | Gynaecologist & Obstetrician
Dr. Milind Chauhan is a trusted and reputed gynaecologist and obstetrician in Andheri East, Mumbai, specialising in infertility treatment in both males and females, pregnancy care, medical termination of pregnancy, normal vaginal delivery, and general women’s healthcare. Dr. Milind also offers other women’s healthcare services such as pregnancy counselling, PCOS treatment, menstrual disorder care, and menopause advice.