Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that affects 5-8% of pregnancies worldwide, posing a significant risk to both the mother and baby. Characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, preeclampsia can develop after the 20th week of pregnancy, often without warning signs. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications such as eclampsia, preterm birth, and maternal death.
What Causes Preeclampsia?
The exact cause of preeclampsia remains unknown, but researchers believe it is linked to problems with the placenta. Some contributing factors include:
- First-time pregnancy – Nearly 75% of preeclampsia cases occur in first-time mothers.
- Pre-existing high blood pressure – Women with chronic hypertension are at higher risk.
- Obesity – Studies indicate that women with a BMI over 30 have a 2-3 times higher risk of developing preeclampsia.
- Multiple pregnancies – Carrying twins or triplets increases the likelihood.
- Underlying health conditions – Diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders can contribute.
- Family history – Women with a family history of preeclampsia are at a 20-40% higher risk.
Symptoms of Preeclampsia
Many women with preeclampsia do not experience obvious symptoms, making regular prenatal checkups essential. However, common symptoms include:
- High blood pressure (140/90 mmHg or higher)
- Severe headaches
- Sudden swelling in hands, feet, or face
- Rapid weight gain (more than 2kg per week)
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
- Pain in the upper abdomen, particularly on the right side
- Shortness of breath or decreased urine output
Complications of Preeclampsia
Without timely medical intervention, preeclampsia can lead to severe complications, such as:
- Eclampsia – This condition, marked by seizures, can be fatal for both mother and baby. Up to 10% of women with untreated severe preeclampsia develop eclampsia.
- HELLP Syndrome – A severe form of preeclampsia that affects the liver and blood cells. It occurs in 10-20% of severe preeclampsia cases.
- Preterm Birth – Nearly 15% of premature births worldwide are linked to preeclampsia.
- Placental Abruption – A life-threatening condition where the placenta detaches from the uterus before delivery, occurring in 1-2% of pregnancies.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Preeclampsia is diagnosed through blood pressure monitoring, urine tests for protein, and blood tests. Unfortunately, there is no cure for preeclampsia except delivering the baby. Treatment options include:
- Blood pressure medication – To prevent severe complications.
- Bed rest and close monitoring – In mild cases.
- Hospitalization and early delivery – In severe cases, delivery may be induced as early as 34 weeks.
- Corticosteroids – Administered to accelerate fetal lung development if preterm delivery is necessary.
Preventing Preeclampsia
While preeclampsia cannot always be prevented, women can lower their risk by:
- Attending regular prenatal checkups to monitor blood pressure.
- Maintaining a healthy weight and diet rich in calcium and magnesium.
- Exercising regularly to improve cardiovascular health.
- Managing underlying health conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
- Taking low-dose aspirin (if recommended by a doctor) for high-risk women.
Conclusion
Preeclampsia is a potentially deadly pregnancy complication that requires early detection and medical attention. With proper prenatal care, monitoring, and intervention, the risks can be minimized, ensuring better health outcomes for both mothers and babies. Increased awareness, research, and healthcare support are crucial in reducing the global burden of preeclampsia and saving lives.
