Preeclampsia

What is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder that occurs only during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The onset of preeclampsia usual takes place after 20 weeks gestation. Preeclampsia, Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH) and toxemia are closely related conditions just as HELLP Syndrome and eclampsia are also manifestations of the same syndrome.
Preeclampsia causes blood pressure to rise increasing the risk of stroke or impaired kidney function, impaired liver function, blood clotting problems, pulmonary edema (fluid on the lungs), seizures, and in severe forms maternal and infant death.


What percentage of women experience Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia occurs in 5%-8% of all pregnancies. Preeclampsia can appear at any time during a pregnancy, delivery and up to six weeks post-partum. HELLP Syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and lowered platelets), one of the most severe forms of preeclampsia occurs in 4%-12% of the women who have preeclampsia.

What are some risk factors for developing Preeclampsia?

-Previous History of preeclampsia
-History of chronic high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disorder
-Family history of preeclampsia
-Women with a greater than 30% Body Mass Index (BMI)
-Multiple gestation
-Over 40 or under 18 years of age
-Polycystic ovarian syndrome
-Lupus or other autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis or MS

What causes Preeclampsia?

There is not just one known cause of preeclampsia, there are many theories as to what causes it. Some of the theories include insufficient blood flow to the uterus, calcium deficiency, preexisting maternal condition, nutritional problems and high body fat.

Preeclampsia and Prematurity.

Preeclampsia is responsible for 15% of premature births in the United States each year. It is the leading known cause of preterm birth.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

High Blood Pressure
Headache
Protein in your urine
Nausea or vomiting
Swelling of hands, feet and face
Changes in vision
Sudden weight gain


**FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON PREECLAMPSIA PLEASE VISIT THE PREECLAMPSIA FOUNDATION AT http://www.preeclampsia.org/