Preeclampsia effects 5-8% of pregnancies in US and usually occurs after 20 weeks gestation. It is defined generally as chronic high blood pressure during pregnancy, often impacting other organ symptoms (commonly kidney or liver). Experts believe cause is connected to abnormal blood vessel development in the placenta as it is forming. These blood vessels are found to be more narrow leading to insufficient delivery of blood and nutrients to and from the placenta. Signs and symptoms include, but are not limited to:

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Excess protein in your urine (proteinuria) or additional signs of kidney problems

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Severe headaches

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Changes in vision, including temporary loss of vision, blurred vision or light sensitivity

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Upper abdominal pain, usually under your ribs on the right side

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Nausea or vomiting

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Decreased urine output

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Decreased levels of platelets in your blood (thrombocytopenia)

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Impaired liver function

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Shortness of breath, caused by fluid in your lungs

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Researchers have determined several risk factors for preeclampsia such as chronic high blood pressure prior to pregnancy, obesity, increased maternal age, race, multiple-baby pregnancies, decreased time between pregnancies, history of diabetes, and IVF. Complications for mom and baby include (but are not limited to) fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, placental abruption (placenta separates from uterus abnormally), seizures, multiple organ damage, and cardiovascular disease.

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The condition is diagnosed through a serious of medical tests, but multiple readings of blood pressure 140/90 or higher in the same day is usually a major cause for concern. Other means of diagnosis include low platelet count, liver damage, kidney problems, proteinuria (protein in urine), and headaches or visual disturbances.

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Treatments include rest/bedrest, medications, activity and diet modifications, hospitalizations, and scheduled pre-term delivery. Please discuss with your doctor if you are at risk or are showing signs/symptoms. If left untreated, preeclampsia can be fatal to both mother and baby. Like most diagnosis, there is a spectrum of severity and it is better to be well-informed and examined!