Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific condition characterized by high blood pressure, proteinuria, and edema. It is a serious complication of pregnancy that can affect both the mother and her unborn child. Preeclampsia is thought to be caused by an abnormal placenta and occurs in up to 7% of pregnancies. It is most common in the second and third trimesters, but can occur at any time. If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to serious health complications, including seizures, stroke, heart, liver, and kidney damage in the mother and premature birth or stillbirth in the baby. Risk factors associated with preeclampsia include first pregnancy, carrying multiple babies, a family history of preeclampsia, being of African descent, being over the age of 35, carrying excess weight, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Treatment of preeclampsia generally involves close monitoring of the mother's blood pressure and other vital signs, as well as regular ultrasounds to check the baby's growth and development. If the condition becomes severe, the mother may need to be admitted to the hospital for further monitoring and treatment. In some cases, delivery of the baby may be necessary to protect the health of the mother and baby. In addition to close monitoring, lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and getting regular exercise may help reduce the risk of preeclampsia. Women should also consult their healthcare provider for further advice on managing preeclampsia and minimizing risks to their health and that of their baby.