Preeclampsia and Eclampsia – Essential Knowledge

Preeclampsia and Eclampsia – Essential Knowledge

This article provides basic knowledge about preeclampsia and eclampsia, including their concepts, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

1. Concepts

– Preeclampsia: A condition characterized by high blood pressure that develops after the 20th week of pregnancy, accompanied by protein in the urine or swelling.

– Eclampsia: A dangerous complication of preeclampsia, manifested by generalized seizures.

2. Symptoms

Preeclampsia:

– High blood pressure: Systolic blood pressure increase ≥ 30 mmHg compared to the initial value.

– Proteinuria: Presence of protein in the urine.

– Edema: Swelling in the face, hands, feet, or the whole body.

– Other symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, eye pain, nausea, vomiting, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, decreased urination.

Eclampsia:

– Generalized seizures, possibly accompanied by loss of consciousness and loss of body control.

3. Diagnosis

– Taking a history of pregnancy and maternal medical conditions.

– Physical examination: Blood pressure measurement, edema assessment, eye examination, fetal assessment.

– Tests: Urine test (proteinuria), blood tests (liver and kidney function, platelets), fetal ultrasound.

4. Treatment

– Mild preeclampsia: Rest, monitoring of blood pressure, proteinuria, and fetal condition.

– Severe preeclampsia: Antihypertensive medications, diuretics, sedatives, magnesium sulfate (seizure prevention), fetal monitoring and treatment, supportive care.

– Eclampsia: Seizure control (magnesium sulfate), supportive care, fetal monitoring, and determining the timing of delivery.

5. Prevention

– Controlling blood pressure and diabetes before pregnancy.

– Regular prenatal care, monitoring blood pressure, proteinuria, and fetal condition.

– Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and alcohol.

6. Complications

– Complications for the mother: Kidney failure, liver failure, brain hemorrhage, acute pulmonary edema, death.

– Complications for the fetus: Intrauterine growth restriction, placental abruption, stillbirth, preterm birth, respiratory distress in newborns.

7. Prognosis

– Depends on the severity of preeclampsia and eclampsia, the mother’s health condition, and the fetal condition.

– Mild preeclampsia typically has a good prognosis but requires close monitoring to prevent complications.

– Eclampsia can be fatal for both mother and fetus if not treated promptly and appropriately.

Note: This article is for general knowledge purposes only and does not replace the advice of a doctor. If you suspect you have preeclampsia or eclampsia, see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment.