Pre-eclampsia Symptoms During Pregnancy: Causes, Risks & Prevention

Pre-eclampsia Symptoms During Pregnancy: Causes, Risks & Prevention

Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy condition that can develop after 20 weeks of gestation. It is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and organ damage, primarily affecting the liver and kidneys. If left untreated, pre-eclampsia can lead to severe complications for both the mother and baby. At Harsh Hospital, Himatnagar, we emphasize early detection and timely treatment to ensure a safe pregnancy journey.

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What Causes Pre-eclampsia?

While the exact cause of pre-eclampsia is still unknown, some factors contribute to its development:

✔ Placental Abnormalities – Insufficient blood flow to the placenta may trigger the condition. ✔ Immune System Dysfunction – An irregular immune response can lead to high blood pressure and inflammation. ✔ Genetics – A family history of pre-eclampsia increases the risk. ✔ Blood Vessel Issues – Narrow or damaged blood vessels can cause high blood pressure. ✔ Underlying Medical Conditions – Women with diabetes, kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, or chronic hypertension are at higher risk.

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Symptoms of Pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia symptoms may vary but commonly include:

⚠ High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – 140/90 mmHg or higher is a major red flag. ⚠ Severe Headaches – Persistent and throbbing headaches that don’t go away with medication. ⚠ Vision Problems – Blurred vision, light sensitivity, or temporary loss of sight. ⚠ Swelling (Edema) – Sudden swelling in the face, hands, and feet due to fluid retention. ⚠ Protein in Urine (Proteinuria) – Indicates kidney dysfunction. ⚠ Upper Abdominal Pain – Pain under the ribs, especially on the right side. ⚠ Nausea or Vomiting – Not related to morning sickness. ⚠ Shortness of Breath – Caused by fluid accumulation in the lungs.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

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Risk Factors for Pre-eclampsia

Some women are at a higher risk of developing pre-eclampsia, including:

🔹 First-time mothers 🔹 Mothers carrying twins or multiple babies 🔹 Women over 35 years of age 🔹 Those with a history of pre-eclampsia in previous pregnancies 🔹 Obesity (BMI over 30) 🔹 Pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease

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Complications of Pre-eclampsia

If left untreated, pre-eclampsia can lead to:

🚨 Eclampsia – Seizures that pose life-threatening risks for both mother and baby. 🚨 HELLP Syndrome – A severe form of pre-eclampsia affecting the liver and blood cells. 🚨 Preterm Birth – High blood pressure can lead to early delivery, increasing neonatal complications. 🚨 Placental Abruption – The placenta may detach from the uterus, causing heavy bleeding. 🚨 Organ Damage – Liver, kidney, or brain damage in severe cases.

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How is Pre-eclampsia Diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose pre-eclampsia through:

✔ Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring – Consistently high BP levels require further tests. ✔ Urine Tests – To check for protein (proteinuria), indicating kidney issues. ✔ Blood Tests – To assess liver function and platelet count. ✔ Ultrasound Scans – To monitor fetal growth and placental health. ✔ Doppler Studies – To evaluate blood flow to the baby.

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Prevention and Management

While pre-eclampsia cannot always be prevented, these steps can help lower the risk:

✔ Monitor Blood Pressure Regularly – Keep a close watch on your BP levels. ✔ Healthy Diet – Consume a balanced diet rich in calcium, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. ✔ Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to support kidney function. ✔ Regular Prenatal Check-ups – Early detection ensures timely management. ✔ Exercise in Moderation – Light activities like walking and prenatal yoga can help maintain a healthy BP. ✔ Limit Salt Intake – Excessive salt can raise blood pressure. ✔ Take Prescribed Medications – If you're at high risk, your doctor may recommend low-dose aspirin (81 mg daily) from 12 weeks of pregnancy. ✔ Rest & Stress Management – Practice relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing.

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Treatment Options for Pre-eclampsia

If diagnosed with pre-eclampsia, your doctor will determine the best course of treatment based on severity and gestational age:

🩺 Mild Cases: ✔ Frequent Monitoring – BP checks, urine tests, and fetal monitoring. ✔ Lifestyle Modifications – Diet, hydration, and controlled physical activity.

🩺 Severe Cases: ✔ Hospitalization – Intensive monitoring and IV medications. ✔ Medications – Antihypertensive drugs to control blood pressure. ✔ Corticosteroids – To accelerate fetal lung development if preterm birth is needed. ✔ Early Delivery – In life-threatening cases, an emergency C-section may be required.

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Conclusion

Pre-eclampsia is a serious but manageable condition when detected early. Regular prenatal check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and medical supervision can help ensure a safe pregnancy. At Harsh Hospital, Himatnagar, we offer advanced maternal care to support expecting mothers and ensure the best outcomes for both mom and baby.

📞 Book your prenatal consultation today! Your health and your baby’s well-being are our top priorities.