Pre eclampsia
Pregnancy Conditions
What is Pre-eclampsia?
Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy-related condition that is associated with high blood pressure (hypertension) and elevated protein in the urine (proteinuria), which may indicate kidney damage.
The occurrence of this disease is usual in women who, previously had normal blood pressure, especially from 20 weeks onward.
It may also affect other organs in the body, causing issues like kidney and liver injury, brain damage, and other severe health complications both for the mother and the developing foetus.
Pre-eclampsia is also a condition that needs proper monitoring and immediate treatment by healthcare providers due to the risks it poses. It may also develop after delivery and is known as postpartum pre-eclampsia.
Symptoms of Pre-eclampsia in Pregnancy
The recognition of the signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia is also important. While some women never develop apparent signs of an illness, common symptoms for such patients include the following:
- High Blood Pressure
- Proteinuria
- Swelling (Edema)
- Severe Headaches
- Vision Problems
- Upper Right Abdominal Pain
- Shortness of Breath
- Nausea or Vomiting
- Sudden Weight Gain
Severe Symptoms of Pre-eclampsia
- Hypertensive Emergency
- Decreased Kidney or Liver Function
- Low Platelet Levels (Thrombocytopenia)
- Reduced Urine Output
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of pre-eclampsia remains unclear, but several factors may increase the risk:
- Placental Issues
- Blood Vessel Development
- Multiple Factors
High-Risk Factors
- History of High Blood Pressure
- Multiple Pregnancies
- Autoimmune Conditions
- Previous Pre-eclampsia
Moderate-Risk Factors
- First Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Advanced Maternal Age
- Family History
- Complications in Prior Pregnancies
Diagnosis of Pre-Eclampsia in Pregnancy
The diagnosis of pre-eclampsia often occurs during routine prenatal checkups, where the health care provider checks several health parameters, including blood pressure and urine tests. Here is a step-by-step elaboration of the diagnostic process:
Key Criteria for Diagnosis
A diagnosis of pre-eclampsia is made if a patient presents with high blood pressure after the 20th week of pregnancy and exhibits at least one of the following findings:
- Proteinuria
- Signs of Kidney Problems
- Low Blood Platelet Count
- Elevated Liver Enzymes
- Fluid in the Lungs
- New Headaches or Vision Disturbances
Blood Pressure Measurement
High blood pressure is confirmed when:
- Systolic Pressure
- Diastolic Pressure
Additional Tests for Confirmation
To further assess the presence and severity of pre-eclampsia, healthcare providers may order several additional tests:
- Blood Tests
- Urine Analysis
- Foetal Ultrasound
- Nonstress Test or Biophysical Profile
Complications of Pre-Eclampsia
If left untreated, pre-eclampsia can lead to severe complications for both mother and baby, including:
- Maternal Complications
- Seizures (Eclampsia)
- Coma
- Stroke
- Kidney Damage
- Liver Damage
- HELLP Syndrome
- Organ Damage
- Foetal Complications
- Foetal Growth Restriction
- Premature Birth
- Placental Abruption
Long-term Risks
- Future Cardiovascular Disease
- Recurrent Pre-eclampsia
- Kidney Disease
Management and Treatment of Pre-eclampsia in Pregnancy
The treatment of pre-eclampsia primarily focuses on managing the condition and determining the appropriate timing for delivery. The approach varies based on the severity of the pre-eclampsia and the gestational age of the foetus.
General Treatment Guidelines
Monitoring: Regular prenatal visits are critical in the assessment of blood pressure, kidney damage, and the unborn child’s health. Besides this, providers would include ultrasounds, urinalyses, and blood tests.
Home Blood Pressure Monitoring: Patients may be advised to check their blood pressure at home to monitor changes.
Treatment for Mild Pre-eclampsia
Frequent Provider Visits: Increased appointments may be necessary to monitor the condition.
Blood Pressure Management: Lifestyle changes and medications may be prescribed for the management of blood pressure.
Treatment for Severe Pre-eclampsia
Hospitalisation: Patients diagnosed with severe pre-eclampsia will typically require hospitalisation for close monitoring.
Medication
- Antihypertensive Drugs: Medications to lower blood pressure and prevent complications.
- Magnesium Sulfate: Administered to avoid seizures (eclampsia).
- Corticosteroids: These are used to help with foetal lung development, especially if early delivery is anticipated.
Delivery Considerations
- Timing of Delivery: If pre-eclampsia is mild, delivery may be planned around 37 weeks. For severe cases, early delivery may be necessary.
- Delivery Method: The mode of delivery would be determined by the severity and whether the mother and the baby are fit enough to deliver vaginally or through caesarean section.
Post-Delivery Care
Monitoring After Delivery: Close observation for high blood pressure and signs of postpartum pre-eclampsia is essential. Women should be educated on symptoms to watch for, such as severe headaches, vision changes, and abdominal pain.
Why Choose a Fetal Medicine Specialist Like Dr Lida Anwari for Your Pregnancy?
Pregnancy, whether routine or complex, benefits from expert care. Dr Lida Anwari, a foetal medicine specialist with extensive UK NHS experience, offers advanced oversight for maternal and foetal health.
She specialises in managing normal, high-risk, and complicated pregnancies, ensuring optimal outcomes for both mother and baby. From addressing conditions like pre-eclampsia to providing personalised delivery plans, her comprehensive care ensures peace of mind.
Dr Lida Anwari also performs aesthetic gynaecology procedures, blending medical and emotional well-being. Trust her holistic approach to guide you through every step of your pregnancy journey. Schedule your consultation today for unparalleled care and support.