What is Preeclampsia and How to Manage it?

This article is medically reviewed by Dr Valery Feigin | Professor of Neurology & Epidemiology and Director of NISAN (National Institute for Stroke and Applied Neurosciences), Auckland University of Technology

Pregnancy is a miraculous journey that is sometimes met with unexpected health challenges. Preeclampsia is one such complication that affects approximately 5-8% of pregnancies worldwide and is characterized as having high blood pressure during pregnancy with the accompaniment of organ damage.

However, what is Preeclampsia?

It is a pregnancy-related disorder that is characterized by the presence of high blood pressure (hypertension) and high levels of protein in the urine (proteinuria) which is caused by kidney damage, or other indications of organ damage. Preeclampsia typically arises after 20 weeks of gestation.

Signs and Symptoms of Preeclampsia

• High blood pressure, also known as Hypertension: when the pressure in your blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher).
• Swelling in face and hands
• Severe headaches
• Visual disturbances
• Abdominal Pain
• Nausea/Vomiting
• Excess protein in urine (proteinuria) or other indications of kidney problems
• Decreased levels of platelets in blood as known as Thrombocytopenia
• Increased liver enzymes that indicate liver problems
• Changes in vision such as temporary loss of vision, blurred vision, or light sensitivity

Risk Factors

Though the exact cause behind preeclampsia remains unknown, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of occurrence in a pregnant individual.

Such factors include but are not limited to a history of preeclampsia in previous pregnancies, first-time pregnancy, obesity, preexisting hypertension, diabetes, and certain autoimmune disorders.

Impact on Maternal and Fetal health

Preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for the mother, including damage to vital organs such as the kidneys, liver, and brain. In severe cases, it can progress to eclampsia, characterized by seizures, posing life-threatening risks to both mother and child. Preeclampsia can also pose serious risks towards the fetus. Insufficient blood flow due to preeclampsia can restrict the baby's growth, leading to low birth weight and premature birth. In severe cases, it can even result in stillbirth or other complications for the baby.

How to prevent Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia remains to be a complex and potentially life-threatening with no real cure or causation. The exact prevention methods for preeclampsia are undetermined however, regular prenatal care and the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle can lower the risk. It requires proactive monitoring paired with timely intervention to aid in early identification and effective management of the condition. Home blood pressure monitoring is highly recommended according to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Close surveillance like home blood pressure monitoring aids in the facilitation of early detection of high blood pressure and in turn preeclampsia which allows healthcare professionals to identify and address any potential issues promptly.

OMRON home blood pressure monitors, specifically HEM-7600T, HEM-7361T, HEM-7156, HEM-7156T and HEM-7155T are clinically validated to measure blood pressure during pregnancy. These models also come with advanced IntelliSense® technology to ensure comfortable & accurate readings.  As such, OMRON home blood pressure monitors allow you to keep an eye on your blood pressure between visits to the doctor.