Description Preeclampsia (toxemia) is a condition of pregnancy marked by high blood pr...
Description
Preeclampsia (toxemia) is a condition of pregnancy marked by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and swelling of the feet and hands. Women with eclampsia have the same signs and symptoms and in addition have one or more seizures. Preeclampsia and eclampsia is seen after the 20th week of pregnancy. The following increase the risk of having preeclampsia and eclampsia: teenage pregnancy, previous history of preeclampsia, obesity, carrying more than one baby (twins, triplets etc.), having high blood pressure, mother's age greater than 35. This condition is very serious requiring immediate treatment.
Symptoms
Headache, upper abdominal pain, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, leg swelling, hand swelling, sudden weight gain.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood pressure is monitored closely. The urine is checked for protein. Blood tests are done to identify high uric acid, elevated liver function tests, low platelets and renal failure.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA), Ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: Uric acid
Specialists:
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood pressure is monitored closely. The urine is checked for protein. Blood tests are done to identify high uric acid, elevated liver function tests, low platelets and renal failure.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA), Ultrasound
Other Specific Tests: Uric acid
Specialists:
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Treatment
Treatment includes: intravenous magnesium, aggressive blood pressure control with medications (hydralazine, labetalol), and possibly antiseizure medications. Delivery of the baby ends this condition. So cesarian section or induced labor can be used as a cure if the baby is old enough to be delivered safely.