PreeclampsiaCurrent as of: May 20, 2016 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & William Gilbert, MD - Maternal and Fetal Medicine |
|
PreeclampsiaPreeclampsia (formerly called toxemia of pregnancy) is a pregnancy-related condition that causes high blood pressure and affects the mother's kidneys, liver, brain, and placenta . Its cause is unknown. Although preeclampsia usually develops after the 20th week of pregnancy, it can very rarely begin earlier. Preeclampsia can develop gradually or suddenly, and it may remain mild or become severe. If untreated, preeclampsia may damage the mother's liver or kidneys, deprive the fetus of oxygen, and cause eclampsia (seizures). Signs of preeclampsia include:
A woman with any signs of preeclampsia is closely monitored by her doctor or midwife. Moderate preeclampsia is treated in the hospital with bed rest, magnesium sulfate, and sometimes medicine for high blood pressure. Delivery is the only true "cure" for preeclampsia. When a woman has severe preeclampsia or is near term with mild to moderate preeclampsia, delivery is the best treatment. Labor may be started with medicine, unless a cesarean section is deemed necessary. Within the first few days following delivery, the mother's blood pressure usually returns to normal; with severe preeclampsia, it may take several weeks for blood pressure to return to normal. Current as of: May 20, 2016 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & William Gilbert, MD - Maternal and Fetal Medicine |
Search the
Healthwise Knowledgebase This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2017 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. |