Pre-eclampsia can be a serious problem during pregnancy. It causes high blood pressure and harms organs like the liver and kidneys, usually appearing after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Both the mom and the baby face if left untreated. Knowing about the signs, causes, and ways to prevent pre-eclampsia is super important for keeping both mom and baby healthy.
Signs of Pre-eclampsia include:
- High Blood Pressure: When blood pressure goes up (140/90 mm Hg or), it’s a sign.
- Protein in Urine: Proteins in pee can signal pre-eclampsia, found through routine urine tests.
- Swelling: Many women get swelling, especially in hands, face, & feet.
- Headaches: Bad headaches might indicate pre-eclampsia.
- Vision Changes: Blurry vision or light sensitivity are possible symptoms.
- Abdominal Pain: Discomfort below ribs could mean liver issues from pre-eclampsia.
- Shortness of Breath: Hard time breathing may appear in severe cases.
Causes of Pre-eclampsia:
While we’re not entirely sure what causes pre-eclampsia, some factors seem to play a role:
- Problems with the Placenta
- Genetics may influence chances
- Immune Changes during Pregnancy
- Blood Vessel Problems that lead to high blood pressure & other symptoms
- Underlying Health Issues like hypertension or diabetes
Preventing Pre-eclampsia:
Even though we can’t always stop pre-eclampsia from happening, pregnant women can lower their risk by:
- Going to all prenatal check-ups for monitoring
- Making healthy choices like eating well & staying active (with doctor’s okay)
- Sometimes taking low-dose aspirin under medical supervision
- Keeping an eye on blood pressure at home when at risk
Early detection & treatment are crucial for reducing complications from pre-eclampsia. Recognizing signs early on helps keep things under control. By understanding symptoms, causes, and prevention methods for pre-eclampsia, pregnant women can take action to safeguard their own health and that of their precious unborn child. Regular prenatal care, smart lifestyle choices, and knowing about potential risks are vital for managing and preventing pre-eclampsia episodes effectively.