Eclampsia (hypertensive disorder of pregnancy)

Description Advance stage of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia (toxemia) is a condition of pr...

Description

Advance stage of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia (toxemia) is a condition of pregnancy marked by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and swelling of the feet and hands. Eclampsia is preeclampsia along with seizures, a condition that may be fatal. Preeclampsia and eclampsia are 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, age greater than 35. This condition is serious and requires immediate treatment.

Symptoms

Headache, upper abdominal pain, seizure, agitation, muscle aches, arm and leg swelling, blurry vision, fainting.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed with attention to blood pressure, swelling in the extremities, and neurologic findings. The urine is checked for protein. Blood and urine tests are performed to identify high uric acid, elevated liver function tests, low platelets and kidney disease.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA), Ultrasound

Other Specific Tests: Uric acid

Specialists:
Obstetrics and Gynecology

Treatment

Therapy depends on the severity of the symptoms. Treatment includes Intravenous magnesium, anti-seizure medications and aggressive blood pressure control. Definitive treatment is delivery of the baby.