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Preeclampsia
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Mother-to-be? Protect yourself and your baby from the serious complications associated with this pregnancy problem. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
- Get routine checkups
Visit your prenatal provider regularly to prevent and control preeclampsia
- Consider calcium
Reduce your risks by taking 1,200 to1,500 mg a day of this essential nutrient
- Don’t skip the salt
Use normal amounts of salt and drink more water to maintain normal circulation
Also indexed as:
- gestational hypertension,
- preeclampsia,
- pre-eclampsia,
- pregnancy induced hypertension,
- toxemia of pregnancy
About this treatment
About This Condition
Preeclampsia is defined as the combination of high blood pressure (hypertension), swelling (edema), and protein in the urine (albuminuria, proteinuria) developing after the 20th week of pregnancy. Preeclampsia ranges in severity from mild to severe; the mild form is sometimes called proteinuric pregnancy-induced hypertension or proteinuric gestational hypertension.
Women with even mild preeclampsia must be monitored carefully by a healthcare professional. Hospitalization may be necessary to enable close observation.
The cause of preeclampsia is unknown, although several factors have been shown to contribute. Preeclampsia is more common in women during their first pregnancy, as well as in women who are obese, who have diabetes, or who have gestational hypertension. Women who have had preeclampsia during a previous pregnancy are also at increased risk. Preeclampsia has also been associated with calcium deficiencies,antioxidant deficiencies, older maternal age, and job stress.
Symptoms
Symptoms, which typically appear after the 20th week of pregnancy, include swelling of the face and hands, visual disturbances, headache, and high blood pressure. In severe preeclampsia, symptoms are more pronounced. Jaundice may also be present. Severe preeclampsia may lead to seizures (eclampsia) and may cause death to both mother and fetus if left untreated. Like eclampsia, severe preeclampsia is a medical emergency requiring hospitalization.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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