What is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a disorder that occurs only during pregnancy and the postpartum period and affects both the mother and the unborn baby. Affecting at least 5-8% of all pregnancies, it is a rapidly progressive condition characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine. Swelling, sudden weight gain, headaches and changes in vision are important symptoms; however, some women with rapidly advancing disease report few symptoms.
Typically, preeclampsia occurs after 20 weeks gestation (in the late 2nd or 3rd trimesters or middle to late pregnancy), though it can occur earlier. Proper prenatal care is essential to diagnose and manage preeclampsia. Preeclampsia, Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH) and toxemia are closely related conditions. HELLP Syndrome and eclampsia are other manifestations of the same syndrome. It is important to note that research shows that more women die from preeclampsia than eclampsia and one is not necessarily more serious than the other.
Globally, preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal and infant illness and death. By conservative estimates, these disorders are responsible for 76,000 maternal and 500,000 infant deaths each year.
Last Updated: July 19, 2008
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3 comments:
Thank you for sharing this. I had postpartum preeclampsia after Alex was born. It was quite scary and added a new dimension to things.
I'm glad you found the Preeclampsia Foundation web site. It is really a wonderful place for information and support. I hope Henry is doing well!
Carli - Thank you so much for getting ahold of me via FF. As I told you I have been lagging on my once-daily blog checks. I just read back all your entries. I just want to say that i am so sorry you had to go thru all the scares, but I am so happy that Henry is a fighter! BTW - I have twin nephews who were born at 24 weeks and weighed only 1 1/2lbs each. They had their struggle sin the beginning and were in the hospital for almost 4 mos, but today they are healthy, HAPPY 8 year olds! keep us posted! - HUGS!Alison
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