Preeklampsi: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What Is Preeklampsi?

Preeklampsi is a pregnancy-related disorder characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, usually after 20 weeks of gestation. It can affect the kidneys, liver, and other organ systems and poses risks to both mother and baby if untreated.

Severe cases may lead to eclampsia, a life-threatening condition involving seizures.

Causes of Preeklampsi

The exact cause is unknown, but it involves abnormal placental development and maternal vascular response.

Placental Factors

  • Poor blood flow to the placenta
  • Abnormal formation of blood vessels
  • Immune system interaction between mother and fetus

Maternal Risk Factors

  • First pregnancy
  • Previous history of preeklampsi
  • Chronic hypertension or kidney disease
  • Obesity or metabolic disorders
  • Age below 20 or above 35
  • Multiple pregnancies (twins or more)

Genetic and Environmental Factors

  • Family history of preeklampsi
  • Poor nutrition
  • Diabetes or autoimmune disorders
  • Smoking or substance use

Symptoms of Preeklampsi

Symptoms often develop gradually and may be subtle.

Common Symptoms

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Proteinuria (protein in urine)
  • Swelling in hands, feet, or face (edema)
  • Sudden weight gain
  • Headaches
  • Visual disturbances (blurred vision, flashing lights)
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Pain in the upper abdomen or right shoulder

Severe Symptoms

  • Shortness of breath
  • Decreased urine output
  • Severe headache unresponsive to medication
  • Seizures (in eclampsia)
  • Liver or kidney dysfunction

Early detection is critical to prevent progression to severe complications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on blood pressure monitoring, urine tests, and clinical evaluation.

Diagnostic Tools

  • Blood Pressure Checks: Persistent readings ≥140/90 mmHg
  • Urinalysis: Detect protein in urine
  • Blood Tests: Evaluate liver and kidney function
  • Fetal Monitoring: Ultrasound for growth restriction or distress
  • Additional Tests: Platelet count and other lab markers in severe cases

Treatment and Management

Treatment aims to protect both mother and baby and prevent severe complications.

1. Mild Preeklampsi

  • Close monitoring of blood pressure and urine
  • Frequent prenatal visits
  • Bed rest or activity modification if recommended
  • Low-sodium diet and hydration guidance

2. Medications

  • Antihypertensive drugs safe for pregnancy (e.g., labetalol, nifedipine)
  • Magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures in high-risk cases
  • Corticosteroids to promote fetal lung maturity if early delivery is needed

3. Severe Preeklampsi or Eclampsia

  • Hospitalization for close maternal and fetal monitoring
  • Intravenous medications to control blood pressure
  • Prompt delivery (induction or cesarean) if condition worsens
  • Postpartum monitoring as symptoms may persist after birth

Prevention Strategies

While preeklampsi cannot always be prevented, risk can be reduced with early care and lifestyle measures.

Preventive Measures

  • Regular prenatal checkups
  • Healthy weight and balanced diet
  • Blood pressure monitoring before and during pregnancy
  • Low-dose aspirin in high-risk pregnancies (under doctor supervision)
  • Adequate rest and stress management

Prognosis

  • Mild preeklampsi often resolves after delivery
  • Severe cases can lead to maternal and fetal complications if untreated
  • Early detection and management significantly improve outcomes
  • Long-term monitoring may be required for hypertension or organ damage

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What causes preeklampsi?
Abnormal placental development, maternal vascular factors, and underlying health conditions contribute.

Is preeklampsi dangerous?
Yes, untreated cases can lead to eclampsia, organ damage, or fetal complications.

Can preeklampsi be cured?
Delivery of the baby and placenta is the definitive cure; management focuses on reducing risk before birth.

Who is at higher risk?
First-time pregnancies, women with chronic hypertension, obesity, diabetes, multiple pregnancies, or advanced maternal age.

How is it monitored?
Blood pressure, urine protein, blood tests, and fetal assessments guide monitoring and treatment.

Conclusion

Preeklampsi is a serious pregnancy complication marked by high blood pressure and organ involvement. Early detection, careful monitoring, lifestyle management, and timely medical intervention are crucial to safeguard both maternal and fetal health. With proper care, most women have successful pregnancies and recover fully after delivery.

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