Pre-eclampsia, also called pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH), is a condition that can occur in the second half of pregnancy and is characterised by high blood pressure, oedema (swelling) and protein in the urine (Proteinuria). Pre-eclampsia is manageable and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Pre-eclampsia poses a risk to the unborn child as it reduces blood flow to the placenta. It can restrict growth of the baby due to lack of Oxygen and nutrients across the placenta. Pre-eclampsia can progress to eclampsia (seizure). These seizures can be lead to coma and be fatal. Eclampsia most commonly occurs late in pregnancy or just post delivery.
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Signs & Symptoms:
~ Severe Headaches ~ Visual disturbances eg Blurred vision ~ Upper Abdominal pain ~ Vomiting ~ Sudden swelling of feet, ankles, face and hands |
Risk factors:
~ 1st pregnancy ~ Pre-existing Hypertension ~ Family history of Pre-eclampsia ~ Diabetes ~ Carrying multiples (twins or more) |
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***If you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms during pregnancy contact your healthcare provider immediately*** |
Disclaimer:
This is an information website only, based on my experiences and information I have obtained through my own readings, discussions and related to topics of interest to me. For further information, I suggest you do your own research. There are differing opinions on some topics so some websites may give conflicting information and currency of information may change over time. For medical advice, I suggest you contact your healthcare provider.
This is an information website only, based on my experiences and information I have obtained through my own readings, discussions and related to topics of interest to me. For further information, I suggest you do your own research. There are differing opinions on some topics so some websites may give conflicting information and currency of information may change over time. For medical advice, I suggest you contact your healthcare provider.
