Understanding Preeclampsia: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What Is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can develop during pregnancy. It causes high blood pressure and can harm both mother and baby. Usually, preeclampsia starts after the 20th week of pregnancy. However, it can also happen earlier or after birth. Because preeclampsia can be dangerous, it is important to know the signs and get care quickly. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), preeclampsia affects about 2–8% of pregnancies worldwide.

Common Symptoms and Warning Signs

Early detection of preeclampsia can help prevent problems. Therefore, watch for these common symptoms:

High blood pressure (usually above 140/90 mmHg)

Swelling in the face, hands, or feet

Sudden weight gain (more than 2 pounds in a week)

Severe headaches that do not go away

Changes in vision, such as blurring or seeing spots

Pain in the upper right side of the belly

Nausea or vomiting later in pregnancy

Less urine than usual

Sometimes, symptoms are mild or hard to notice. For this reason, regular prenatal checkups are very important.

Main Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not know the exact cause of preeclampsia. Even so, certain factors can raise your risk. These include:

First pregnancy

History of preeclampsia in a past pregnancy

Carrying twins or more

High blood pressure before pregnancy

Diabetes or kidney disease

Obesity

Being over age 35

Family history of preeclampsia

Because some risks cannot be changed, it is important to talk to your doctor about your health history.

How Is Preeclampsia Diagnosed?

Doctors use several steps to diagnose preeclampsia. First, they check your blood pressure at every prenatal visit. Next, they may test your urine for protein. Too much protein in urine is a key sign of preeclampsia. Additionally, blood tests can check for problems with your liver, kidneys, and platelets. Sometimes, doctors may order an ultrasound to see how your baby is growing. Early diagnosis helps keep you and your baby safe.

Treatment Options and Management

Treatment for preeclampsia depends on how severe it is and how far along you are in pregnancy. In mild cases, your doctor may suggest:

Resting on your left side

Frequent blood pressure checks

Regular urine and blood tests

Close monitoring of your baby’s growth

For severe preeclampsia, you may need:

Hospital care

Medicines to lower blood pressure

Medicines to prevent seizures (such as magnesium sulfate)

Early delivery if the condition worsens

Because preeclampsia can get worse quickly, always follow your doctor’s advice closely.

Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Guidance

While preeclampsia cannot always be prevented, you can lower your risk with healthy habits. For example:

Attend all prenatal appointments

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables

Stay active with gentle exercise, if your doctor agrees

Limit salt and processed foods

Maintain a healthy weight before and during pregnancy

Manage other health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure

In some cases, your doctor may recommend low-dose aspirin to help prevent preeclampsia. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting any medicine.

When to Seek Medical Help

It is important to know when to call your doctor. Seek help right away if you notice:

Severe headaches

Vision changes

Severe swelling

Pain in the upper belly

Shortness of breath

Even if you are unsure, it is better to be safe and get checked. Quick action can protect both you and your baby.

Conclusion

Preeclampsia is a serious condition, but early care can make a big difference. Because symptoms can be mild, regular checkups are key. If you notice symptoms of preeclampsia or have concerns during pregnancy, consult a healthcare specialist at Mansha Diagnostics Centre & Clinic for personalized advice.