Should we be aware of high blood pressure (preeclampsia) during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is the most beautiful and hopeful time in every mother's life. But it is very important that we are aware of and take care of some health problems along with the changes that occur in our body during this time. Today we are talking about ' Preeclampsia ', a condition that can occur during pregnancy, but which many people do not know about, but which we definitely need to know about.

What exactly is preeclampsia?

Simply put, preeclampsia is a condition during pregnancy where you develop high blood pressure, excess protein in your urine, and swelling in your hands, feet, and legs. It was also previously called 'toxemia.'

This condition can range from mild to life-threatening. It is most common in late pregnancy, after 34 weeks. However, it can sometimes occur earlier or even after the baby is born .

By being aware of this early, recognizing the symptoms, discussing it regularly with your doctor, and attending clinics, you can greatly reduce the long-term effects on you and your baby.

Postpartum Preeclampsia

This is a rare condition. This can happen if your blood pressure increases after you have your baby and you have protein in your urine. This usually happens within 48 hours of giving birth, but it can also happen up to 6 weeks or even later. This requires immediate medical attention, or it can lead to more serious conditions like seizures.

Difference between Preeclampsia and Eclampsia

If preeclampsia is not properly controlled, it can develop into a very serious condition called eclampsia . This is when the mother experiences seizures along with the symptoms of preeclampsia. This is very dangerous for both mother and baby, and in rare cases, can even lead to death.

Be aware of these symptoms.

In addition to high blood pressure (greater than 140/90 mmHg), protein in the urine, and swelling (edema), the following symptoms may also be seen in preeclampsia. If you have one or more of these , notify your doctor immediately .

But remember, sometimes preeclampsia can be present without any symptoms . That's why it's so important to go to your prenatal clinic to have your blood pressure checked and your urine tested.

What are the reasons for this situation?

Doctors are not yet sure what the exact cause is, but they believe that the placenta is not functioning properly . Reduced blood flow to the uterus may also play a role. Genetic factors also play a role.

What factors increase the risk of preeclampsia?

Some people are at higher risk of developing this condition. Let's take a look at what it is.

Possible complications of preeclampsia

This condition can reduce the amount of blood reaching the placenta, which means the baby doesn't get the oxygen and nutrients it needs.

• Fetal growth restriction: The baby may lose weight.
• Preterm birth: A baby can be born before the due date. If this happens, the baby may have problems such as breathing, difficulty breastfeeding, and learning disabilities.
• Placental abruption: The sudden separation of the placenta from the uterine wall.
• HELLP syndrome: This is a very serious, emergency condition that causes liver damage and a low number of platelets in the blood.
• Eclampsia: As mentioned earlier, seizures.
• Damage to other organs: Kidneys, liver, lungs, heart, and brain may be damaged.
• Future risk of heart disease: A mother who has had preeclampsia may have a slightly increased risk of developing heart disease in the future.

How is it treated?

As I said before, the only permanent solution for preeclampsia is to deliver the baby.

Your doctor will decide when the best time to deliver your baby is based on your baby's growth, how your baby is positioned in the womb, and the severity of your preeclampsia.

• If the baby is growing well (after 37 weeks): The doctor may decide to induce labor and deliver the baby normally or perform a cesarean section.
• If the baby is not yet full: If the condition is not serious, you may be kept in the hospital and closely monitored until the baby is a little older. During this time, you may:
• They will give you medicine to lower your blood pressure.
• Medications such as magnesium sulfate may be prescribed to prevent seizures.
• Steroid injections will be given to help the baby's lungs develop faster.
• Regular blood and urine tests are performed.

The most important thing is to follow your doctor's instructions exactly.

Pregnancy, Preeclampsia, High Blood Pressure, Eclampsia, Pregnant Mother, Childbirth, Preeclampsia Sinhala