Pregnancy: Preeclampsia and Eclampsia

• What Is Preeclampsia?
• What Is Eclampsia?
• What Causes Preeclampsia and Eclampsia?
• Who Is at Risk for Preeclampsia?
• How Can I Tell if I Have Preeclampsia?
• Does Swelling During Pregnancy Mean I Have Preeclampsia?
• How Can Preeclampsia Affect My Baby?
• How Is Preeclampsia and Eclampsia Treated?

What Is Preeclampsia?

Also referred to as toxemia, preeclampsia is a condition that pregnant women can get. It is marked by high blood pressure accompanied with a high level of protein in the urine. Women with preeclampsia will often also have swelling in the feet, legs and hands. Preeclampsia, when present, usually appears during the second half of pregnancy, generally in the latter part of the second or in the third trimesters, although it can occur earlier.

What Is Eclampsia?

Eclampsia is the final and most severe phase of preeclampsia and occurs when preeclampsia is left untreated. In addition to the previously mentioned symptoms, women with eclampsia often have seizures. Eclampsia can cause coma and even death of the mother and baby and can occur before, during or after childbirth.

What Causes Preeclampsia and Eclampsia?

The exact causes of preeclampsia and eclampsia are not known, although some researchers suspect poor nutrition, high body fat or insufficient blood flow to the uterus as possible causes.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

High Blood Pressure - High Blood Pressure: Medical information about hypertension, its treatment, therapies and prevention Source:MedicineNet Pregnancy Symptoms - Read about early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and vomiting (morning sickness), bloating, tender breasts, and more on MedicineNet.com. Source:MedicineNet Edema - Read about edema, an observable swelling in certain parts of the body. Edema may fall into one of two categories: pitting and non-pitting edema. When applying pressure to the swollen skin results in persistent indentation, that's called pitting edema. Treatment for edema typically involves the use of diuretics. Source:MedicineNet Read 23 more Pregnancy: Preeclampsia and Eclampsia related articles ... Pregnancy: High-Normal Blood Sugar Risky Aspirin May Cut Pregnancy Complication Risk Gaining Weight Between Babies Risky