What is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia or toxaemia is a condition where pregnant women suffer from high blood pressure (above 140/90 mm Hg) or hypertension, after the 20th week.

It is manageable with timely care and support. However, it could turn risky if left unchecked.

Symptoms of Hypertension

In its initial stage, you may not experience any of the symptoms that go with preeclampsia. Headaches, vomiting and nausea can be a precursor to the condition. However, these signs may go unnoticed as they are common to any pregnancy.

If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your doctor immediately.

• Headaches accompanied by dizziness
• Nausea
• Excessive weight gain
• Swelling of face, hands and limbs
• Severe abdominal pain

Preeclampsia is also underlined by high levels of protein in urine. The increase in protein levels cannot be known as there are no visible signs. It can only be detected through a urine test.

An extreme case of high BP can result in fits, seizures, coma or death.

Effects on the Child

Most women with preeclampsia have healthy babies. However, there is a chance of the baby being underweight or pre-mature. To avoid any complications and detect abnormalities, your doctor may keep you and your baby under 72-hour observation after delivery.

In severe cases, the blood vessels in the womb constrict, cutting off blood and oxygen to the child. This condition is termed as hypoxia. It could hinder foetal development or even lead to death.

Severe preeclampsia could also cause physical and mental abnormalities.

You are likely to suffer from preeclampsia if;

• Your mother suffered from preeclampsia.
• You had it during the first pregnancy.
• You have multiple pregnancies.
• You have a family history of high BP.
• You are obese.
• You have low energy levels throughout the day.
• You are diabetic.
• You suffer from kidney or vascular diseases.

Make sure your doctor knows your medical history. Always go for a planned pregnancy. Get your tests done regularly to detect and treat preeclampsia as early as possible.

Precautionary Measures

There is no specific medical cure for the condition.

If mild preeclampsia develops, bed rest is usually recommended. Your doctor may also suggest a diet of sea food and multivitamins. Overall you need to cut down on salt and spicy food.

Light exercise like walking may be recommended after the fifth month. But don't over-exert yourself.

In severe cases, women may be hospitalised. Medications such as magnesium sulphate and certain antihypertensive drugs are prescribed to reduce the risk of seizures and control BP.

If your condition worsens, your doctor may advise a pre-mature delivery. It may be through a caesarean or induced labour (after 37 weeks). A natural delivery is usually recommended as c-sections could cause complications.

Usually, your blood pressure will stabilise around 10 days after you deliver. For now, just make sure you get the mandatory prenatal and postnatal tests done at the right time. Also, follow any special care tips recommended by your gynaecologist.

(With inputs from Dr. Rustom Soonawalla, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Breach Candy Hospital & Research Centre and Dr. Anahita Pandole, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Spectrum Clinic)