Preeclampsia vs. Eclampsia

Are you pregnant, plan to be, or know anyone who is? Do you know about Preeclampsia or eclampsia or have you been diagnosed with either? Please read this. Preeclampsia is a condition that can occur anytime after 20 weeks of pregnancy. The symptoms include headaches, nausea, vomiting, swelling in the face and hands, and vision problems, It is diagnosed by high blood pressure in a usually normal BP patient, and protein in the urine. Preeclampsia symptoms may continue until after birth.

If not managed appropriately, it can lead to eclampsia. Though eclampsia is rare, it can happen and is characterized by seizures, upper right quadrant pain, severe headaches, and change in mental status.

Get your blood pressure under control, consume less salt, drink lots of water, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and take your prescribed medications and supplements as directed. These conditions can endanger the lives of both the mother and child/fetus and that’s the reason why prompt medical attention is required. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please discuss with your OB-GYN provider as soon as possible. It is better to be safe than sorry. Spread the word!