Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related hypertensive disorder in which the mother's raised blood pressure leaves the fetus with a reduced blood supply. It is most likely from mid-pregnancy onwards, but it can arise earlier or after birth. The cause is unknown, but risk is higher with diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, autoimmune conditions, a previous affected pregnancy, a first pregnancy, multiple babies or an affected relative. Early signs are high blood pressure and protein in the urine, often unnoticed; severe headache, blurred vision, pain below the ribs and sudden facial or hand swelling are warning symptoms. Complications include seizures (eclampsia), HELLP syndrome, stroke, preterm birth and stillbirth. Diagnosis rests on blood pressure and urine checks, then blood tests and ultrasound when suspected. There is no cure; care involves monitoring, medicine to lower blood pressure and, in severe cases, medicine to prevent seizures, with delivery of the baby often the safest course.

Seek urgent care for fever with flank pain, inability to pass urine, or blood in the urine. See a doctor for burning on urination that lasts more than two days, urinary symptoms that keep returning, or any change in urinary flow in men over 50. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.