Preeclampsia

Definition

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, frequently the liver and kidneys. It usually begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women whose blood pressure had previously been normal.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Preeclampsia can lead to serious or even fatal complications for both mother and baby if left untreated.
2. Symptoms of preeclampsia include severe headaches, changes in vision, upper abdominal pain, and swelling.
3. Risk factors for preeclampsia include first pregnancies, multiple gestations (twins or more), obesity, history of diabetes, and certain autoimmune disorders.
4. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals may help reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia.
5. Management of preeclampsia often involves close monitoring of both mother and fetus, medications to lower blood pressure, and sometimes early delivery.

Review Questions

• What are common symptoms associated with preeclampsia?
• Which nutritional considerations can help reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia?
• How is preeclampsia typically managed in pregnant women?

Related terms

Eclampsia: A severe complication of preeclampsia involving seizures during pregnancy.

Gestational Hypertension: High blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy without other signs of preeclampsia.

HELLP Syndrome: A life-threatening liver disorder thought to be a type of severe preeclampsia characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count.