Preeclampsia: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Complications

What is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a specific medical condition that develops during pregnancy. In this condition, the blood pressure of a pregnant woman rises. The level of proteins in the urine also often increases, known as proteinuria. It can affect major organs, such as the liver and kidneys, and can also impact the developing foetus. Therefore, it is a serious problem that should be addressed promptly to prevent complications.

How does preeclampsia develop?

Understanding the pathophysiology of preeclampsia is crucial. The placenta forms a connection between the mother and the growing foetus. All nutrients are supplied to the foetus from maternal blood through the placenta. The condition occurs when the placenta develops an abnormality. The blood vessels in a healthy placenta widen to supply proper blood flow to the foetus. However, in preeclampsia, the blood vessels remain constricted, resulting in disrupted blood supply. This increases oxidative stress and causes damage to the inner lining of the blood vessels. Improper blood supply and constriction of the blood vessels result in high blood pressure and damage to the organs.

What are the causes of Preeclampsia?

The exact cause of preeclampsia is not known. Several factors that increase the risk of preeclampsia are:

• It is common in women who experience their first pregnancy.
• Factors such as diet, obesity, and oxidative stress increase the risk.
• A history of high blood pressure in the previous pregnancy also increases the risk.
• Women with a family history of preeclampsia are at a higher risk.
• Expecting twins or triplets in the first pregnancy is a contributing factor to preeclampsia.
• Having a baby at an older age also increases the risk.

Types and Stages of Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia can progress through various stages of development.

• If a woman has high blood pressure with mild protein in the urine without having organ damage, it is known as mild preeclampsia.
• If blood pressure rises to a high level and there is organ damage, it is known as severe preeclampsia.
• If preeclampsia develops before 34 weeks, it is more severe and called early-onset preeclampsia.
• If it develops after 34 weeks with mild symptoms, it is known as late-onset preeclampsia.
• Some women may experience high blood pressure after childbirth within 48 hours to 6 weeks, which is known as postpartum preeclampsia.

Difference Between Preeclampsia and Eclampsia

The primary difference between preeclampsia and eclampsia is that in preeclampsia, the woman experiences high blood pressure and proteinuria without seizures. In contrast, in eclampsia, seizures also develop due to uncontrolled blood pressure. Eclampsia can pose a danger to both mother and baby. Early diagnosis and treatment of preeclampsia and eclampsia can prevent complications.

Complications of preeclampsia

If preeclampsia is not treated in a timely manner, it can lead to complications such as:

• Liver and kidney damage
• Seizures
• Organ failure or stroke
• HELLP syndrome: Haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets

Complications for the Baby

• Preterm birth
• Detachment of the placenta before delivery
• Low birth weight
• Stillbirth in severe and untreated cases.

Management of preeclampsia

The management of preeclampsia includes controlling symptoms and preventing symptoms.

• The doctor will advise regular check-ups of blood pressure, protein content in the urine, and foetal growth.
• Rest, a low-sodium diet, and proper hydration are essential to prevent complications.
• The doctor will prescribe medications to control blood pressure, foetal growth, and prevent seizures.
• In severe cases, a woman may have to get admitted to the hospital for regular monitoring and safety.

Preeclampsia Treatment Options

Treatment of preeclampsia depends on the severity of the symptoms. The doctor aims to maintain the pregnancy as long as possible. If you develop preeclampsia close to 37 weeks, the doctor may recommend a C-section. The doctor gives medications to develop foetal lungs and manage blood pressure until delivery.

If preeclampsia develops in early pregnancy, the doctor will monitor your blood pressure until delivery. The pregnancy is carried for the growth of the foetus until severe complications arise. You may need to visit the doctor for regular prenatal check-ups, which may include blood tests.

Preeclampsia treatment involves medications and preventive care. In mild cases, doctors prescribe antihypertensive drugs to control blood pressure. Some women may experience symptoms after delivery, and they may have to continue taking medications. Doctors suggest complete bed rest and dietary restrictions for the patients to prevent complications.

Prevention and Early Diagnosis of Preeclampsia

Early diagnosis of preeclampsia can help prevent complications. Women diagnosed with preeclampsia must ensure to check their blood pressure regularly. They must avoid high salt intake. A healthy and balanced diet helps to control symptoms. Exercise also helps to improve blood circulation in the vessels.

Living with Preeclampsia – Care and Support

Women diagnosed with preeclampsia may experience anxiety and fear due to uncertainty about pregnancy outcomes and the baby's health. Such women need special care and support from family members and caregivers. Emotional support, rest, and counselling with medical experts help such women to feel at ease and manage the condition effectively.

After delivery, women must take care to manage symptoms. They must monitor blood pressure for a few weeks, eat a healthy diet, and exercise to manage weight.

Conclusion

In conclusion, preeclampsia is a serious medical condition that may arise during pregnancy. It can be managed with lifestyle changes and dietary modifications if diagnosed at an early stage. Regular blood pressure monitoring, observing warning signs, and visiting a doctor for regular health check-ups can help achieve positive outcomes. Women must be aware of the preeclampsia symptoms so that they can notify the physician as early as possible to get timely treatment.