Preeclampsia: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Prevention

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can develop during pregnancy. It usually happens after the 20th week. Many women may not notice early signs. However, preeclampsia can affect both the mother and the baby. Early detection and care are important. In this blog, you will learn about preeclampsia symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and prevention. Understanding these facts can help keep you and your baby safe.

What is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a health problem that occurs only during pregnancy. It causes high blood pressure and can damage organs, such as the liver and kidneys. Usually, it starts after the 20th week of pregnancy. Sometimes, it can happen earlier or after birth. If not treated, preeclampsia can lead to serious problems for both mother and baby. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), preeclampsia affects about 2–8% of pregnancies worldwide.

Common Symptoms of Preeclampsia

Many women with preeclampsia do not feel sick at first. Still, some signs can help you spot the condition early. Watch for these symptoms:

Swelling in the face, hands, or feet

Sudden weight gain

Severe headaches

Changes in vision, such as blurring or seeing spots

Pain in the upper right belly

Nausea or vomiting

Shortness of breath

Less urine than usual

However, some swelling is normal in pregnancy. If you notice these symptoms, talk to your doctor right away. Early action can prevent problems.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not know the exact cause of preeclampsia. Still, several factors can raise your risk. For example, you may be more likely to get preeclampsia if you:

Are pregnant for the first time

Have a family history of preeclampsia

Are carrying twins or more

Have high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease

Are overweight or obese

Are over age 35

Had preeclampsia in a past pregnancy

Because some risks cannot be changed, regular checkups are important. Your doctor can help you manage these risks.

How Preeclampsia is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose preeclampsia. First, they check your blood pressure at every visit. If your blood pressure is high, they may look for other signs. For example, they may test your urine for protein. Too much protein in urine can be a sign of preeclampsia. Blood tests may also check your liver and kidney function. Sometimes, doctors use ultrasound to check the baby’s growth. Early diagnosis helps protect both mother and baby.

Treatment Options

Treatment for preeclampsia depends on how severe it is and how far along you are in pregnancy. Your doctor may suggest:

Frequent blood pressure checks

Resting on your left side

Medications to lower blood pressure

Regular blood and urine tests

Hospital care for severe cases

Early delivery if the condition is life-threatening

Although there is no cure except delivery, careful monitoring can help manage the condition. Your doctor will decide the best plan for you and your baby.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

While you cannot always prevent preeclampsia, some steps may lower your risk. Consider these tips:

Attend all prenatal visits

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables

Stay active with safe exercises

Limit salt and processed foods

Maintain a healthy weight before and during pregnancy

Follow your doctor’s advice about vitamins and supplements

In addition, managing health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can help. Always talk to your doctor before making changes.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you notice signs of preeclampsia, seek medical help right away. For example, call your doctor if you have:

Severe headaches that do not go away

Vision changes or loss

Severe swelling or sudden weight gain

Chest pain or trouble breathing