Preeclampsia is a serious and potentially life-threatening pregnancy complication that affects about 5-8% of all pregnancies worldwide. The condition usually develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women whose blood pressure had previously been in the normal range. It is characterized by high blood pressure, which can damage the blood vessels in the mother's organs, leading to reduced blood flow to the placenta and other organs.
One of the key signs of preeclampsia is high levels of protein in the urine, which indicate kidney damage. Other signs of organ damage may include decreased levels of platelets in the blood, which can affect clotting and increase the risk of bleeding, and increased liver enzymes, which can indicate liver problems. These symptoms can be detected through routine blood and urine tests during prenatal checkups.
In addition to these signs of organ damage, women with preeclampsia may experience other symptoms such as severe headaches, changes in vision, shortness of breath due to fluid in the lungs, pain in the upper belly, usually under the ribs on the right side, and nausea or vomiting. These symptoms can be alarming and should not be ignored.
If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby, including seizures, stroke, placental abruption, and premature delivery. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to attend all their prenatal checkups and report any symptoms to their healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early detection and management of preeclampsia can significantly reduce the risk of complications and ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.