Hypertension – Part 3 – Preeclampsia

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Previously, we have discussed high blood pressure that occurs to pregnant women prior to pregnancy known as pre-existing hypertension as well as hypertension that occurs as a result of pregnancy known as gestational hypertension. In this segment, we are going to discuss preeclampsia. Preeclampsia occurs when a woman has high blood pressure during pregnancy that has started to affect other organ systems in her body, more specifically her kidneys. When the high blood pressure starts to affect the kidneys, they do not perform their task of filtering protein out of the blood. The unfiltered protein then makes it way into the woman’s urine causing a situation called proteinuria. One cannot detect proteinuria with the naked eye. Additionally, one will not feel any symptoms of proteinuria. Using advanced tests, your doctor will be able to detect proteinuria. If a woman experiences both high blood pressure and proteinuria, they have what is known as preeclampsia.

Who is at risk for preeclampsia? Women who have had high blood pressure as well as those who have preeclampsia in the past are at risk of developing the condition. Additionally, individuals who are overweight and those who are either very young (teenagers) or very old for being pregnant (over 35) are also at risk. The blood pressure of those who fall into these categories will usually be monitored carefully by a doctor.

Preeclampsia can be very dangerous. Today, the only known cure of preeclampsia is to deliver the baby. If preeclampsia develops early in pregnancy the doctor may need to deliver the baby early in order to cure the disease. Occasionally one may be monitored carefully and may be admitted to the hospital to be put on bed rest. During this time, tests will be ordered to ensure that the baby is growing poperly. Doctors may also provide treatment for the elevated blood pressure.

Preeclampsia can lead to worse disorders if not treated appropriately. It can affect one’s liver and blood and some people can develop a condition known has Hellp syndrome which stands for H — hemolysis; EL — elevated liver enzymes; LP — low platelet count. When one displays symptoms of Hellp syndrome, it is a sign that preeclampsia has started to affect the liver and blood. Preeclampsia can also lead to seizures. If left untreated, preeclampsia can escalate to what is known as eclampsia which then begins to affect the brain. Because eclampsia it is such a serious disorder, it demands specialized care by a doctor and usually requires hospitalization and medication to both help prevent seizures and control the high blood pressure. During these situations, it is the goal to deliver the baby as quickly and as safely as possible. With proper care, most women and their babies will be fine.

Some common initial symptoms of preeclamsia include headaches, dizziness, nausea, blurry vision and pain in the abdomen (especially the upper right part). If you have any of these symptoms or feel that you are at risk for preeclampsia, definitely speak your doctor right away.