Pre-eclampsia - a condition that occurs in pregnant women. It is characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine. In addition, often in patients with preeclampsia marked swelling of the feet and hands. Typically, preeclampsia occurs in the second half of pregnancy, late in the second or third trimester, although there may be earlier.
Eclampsia - this is the last and most severe phase of preeclampsia, and it occurs in the absence of adequate treatment. Among the manifestations of eclampsia recorded all of those that occur in preeclampsia, in addition, also marked convulsions. Eclampsia can cause coma and even death of the mother and fetus, and may occur before, during and after childbirth.
What is the cause of preeclampsia and eclampsia
The exact cause of preeclampsia and eclampsia is unknown, although some researchers point to poor nutrition, high levels of body fat or insufficient blood flow to the uterus as possible causes.
Those who have a high risk of preeclampsia
The most common pre-eclampsia in women, pregnant for the first time, as well as pregnant at a young age or the age of 40 years. Other risk factors include:
Hypertension before pregnancy
Cases of preeclampsia in the past,
Cases of preeclampsia in the mother or sister women
Pregnancy by obesity,
Pregnancy is more than one fetus,
Diabetes, kidney disease, lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis.
What are the signs of preeclampsia
In addition to edema, the presence of protein in the urine and high blood pressure, to the signs of preeclampsia include:
Rapid weight gain caused by fluid retention in the body of a pregnant,
Abdominal pain,
Severe headache (caused by elevated blood pressure),
Change the reflexes
Reducing the amount of urine,
Dizziness,
Severe nausea and vomiting.
Do the swelling of the body during pregnancy, the presence of pre-eclampsia
Some swelling is characteristic of pregnancy. However, if the swelling does not go after the rest, and combined with the above symptoms, as well as high blood pressure should consult a physician.
As pre-eclampsia can affect the fetus
Pre-eclampsia can cause disruption of blood flow through the placenta, resulting in the newborn may appear underdeveloped. In addition, pre-eclampsia - a major cause of premature birth, and pathology related to them, including epilepsy, cerebral palsy and visual and hearing impairment.
What is the treatment of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia
The only treatment for preeclampsia and eclampsia is the birth of a child.
Mild preeclampsia (blood pressure above 140/90 mm Hg after 20 weeks' gestation in women who previously suffered from hypertension and a small amount of protein in the urine) may require a careful care with limited activity.
At the risk of preterm birth pre-eclampsia may require some treatment before the baby is born. The doctor may then appoint bed rest or hospitalization and medical treatment to prolong survival and improve the treatment of the child. When pregnancy is close to birth, usually caused by childbirth.
Treatment of more severe pre-eclampsia may require immediate delivery, in spite of the pregnancy, because the delay is fraught with fatal consequences.
Other treatments include: The use of magnesia (magnesium sulfate) to prevent seizures and reduce blood pressure. The use of hydralazine or other drugs that reduce high blood pressure. Control of fluid intake.
