Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by persistent high blood pressure, typically developing after the 20th week of pregnancy or in the postpartum period. It’s a condition unique to human pregnancy and can significantly impact both maternal and fetal health.
The diagnosis of preeclampsia has evolved. While previously relying heavily on high levels of protein in the urine (proteinuria) alongside elevated blood pressure, current guidelines recognize that kidney and liver dysfunction can occur even without proteinuria. The severity of preeclampsia isn’t accurately predicted by the amount of protein in the urine. Now, diagnosis hinges on persistent high blood pressure combined with either proteinuria or the presence of other concerning signs.
Specifically, preeclampsia is now diagnosed by persistent high blood pressure accompanied by either high levels of protein in the urine, a new development of decreased blood platelets, kidney or liver problems, fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema), or signs of neurological complications like seizures or visual disturbances.
Recognizing the symptoms of preeclampsia is crucial for timely intervention. Key symptoms include persistent headaches, abdominal pain, shortness of breath or a burning sensation behind the sternum, nausea and vomiting, confusion, heightened anxiety, and visual disturbances such as light sensitivity, blurred vision, or seeing flashing lights or auras. Preeclampsia and related hypertensive disorders affect a significant portion of pregnancies in the United States, impacting 5-8% of all births.
Although most women with preeclampsia deliver healthy babies and recover fully, some experience severe and potentially life-threatening complications for both mother and child. A woman’s condition can rapidly progress to severe preeclampsia. The incidence of preeclampsia in the US has risen by 25% in the last two decades, establishing it as a major contributor to maternal and infant morbidity and mortality.
Preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy pose a significant threat. Delayed diagnosis or inadequate management can have devastating consequences, leading to serious health issues or even death for both mothers and their babies, whether before, during, or after birth.
What are the Effects of Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia can have widespread effects on the mother’s body. It can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure, increasing the risk of brain injury. Kidney and liver function can be impaired, and blood clotting problems may arise. The condition can also lead to pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs), seizures, and, in severe or untreated cases, maternal and infant mortality.
Preeclampsia disrupts blood flow to the placenta, often resulting in smaller or prematurely born babies. In rare instances, babies may be larger than expected, but the relationship between preeclampsia and increased birth weight remains unclear. While maternal death from preeclampsia is relatively rare in developed countries, it remains a leading cause of maternal and infant mortality worldwide.
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