What Is Preeclampsia? Symptoms and Early Detection

What Is Preeclampsia?

What is preeclampsia? Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related disorder characterised by high blood pressure and damage to organs, most often the liver and kidneys, that typically occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It affects approximately 5-8% of pregnancies worldwide and can progress rapidly without treatment.

This condition requires immediate medical attention because it can lead to severe complications, including eclampsia (seizures), organ failure, or problems with the baby’s growth. Understanding what preeclampsia is is the first step to safeguarding maternal and fetal health, and our Obstetrics and Gynaecologists in Delhi-NCR are dedicated to guiding patients through diagnosis and treatment.

Recognising Preeclampsia Symptoms

Identifying preeclampsia symptoms early is vital for timely intervention. Common signs include:

• High blood pressure (above 140/90 mm Hg)

• Sudden swelling of face, hands, or feet (oedema)

• Excessive weight gain over a short period

• Severe headaches

• Visual disturbances such as blurred vision or spots

• Upper abdominal pain, especially under the ribs

• Nausea or vomiting beyond the first trimester

• Reduced urine output or shortness of breath

Because some of these symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for typical pregnancy discomforts, regular prenatal check-ups with experienced Obstetrics and Gynaecologists in Delhi-NCR are essential for monitoring blood pressure and protein levels in urine, two key preeclampsia indicators.

What Causes Preeclampsia?

Despite extensive research, the precise cause of preeclampsia remains unclear. However, experts agree that it results from abnormal placental development and blood vessel formation, leading to poor circulation and high blood pressure. Certain factors increase the likelihood, including:

• First pregnancy or new partners with each pregnancy

• History of preeclampsia or family history

• Chronic hypertension or kidney disease

• Diabetes or autoimmune disorders

• Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets)

• Obesity and advanced maternal age (35 years or older)

Our Obstetrics and Gynaecologists in Delhi-NCR carefully assess and counsel patients with these risk factors, using advanced prenatal screening to detect preeclampsia early.

Difference Between Eclampsia and Preeclampsia

Understanding the difference between eclampsia and preeclampsia is critical.
Preeclampsia is characterised by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage during pregnancy, while eclampsia is a severe progression involving seizures in a woman with preeclampsia.

Eclampsia is a medical emergency requiring immediate hospitalisation and intensive management to prevent maternal and fetal mortality. Our Obstetrics and Gynaecologists in Delhi-NCR highlight the importance of early treatment of preeclampsia to prevent progression to eclampsia.

Preeclampsia Treatment: Managing the Condition Safely

The goal of preeclampsia treatment is to protect both mother and baby while preventing complications. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the pregnancy stage:

• Mild preeclampsia: Careful monitoring of blood pressure, urine tests, and fetal well-being. Rest and reduced physical activity may be recommended.

• Severe preeclampsia: Hospitalisation for close observation, medications to control blood pressure, and corticosteroids to mature the baby’s lungs if early delivery is anticipated.

• Delivery: The only definitive cure is delivering the baby. Timing balances the risks of early birth against dangers to the mother and fetus from ongoing preeclampsia.

Our Obstetrics and Gynaecologists in Delhi-NCR provide personalised management plans tailored to each patient’s condition, ensuring the safest outcomes possible.

Preeclampsia in Pregnancy: Monitoring and Prevention

Monitoring preeclampsia in pregnancy involves routine blood pressure measurements and urine analysis from early gestation throughout prenatal visits. Self-awareness of symptoms and prompt reporting are equally crucial.

Preventive strategies include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight before and during pregnancy

• Managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes

• Following prenatal care schedules strictly

• Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated

• Avoiding smoking and alcohol

In some high-risk cases, low-dose aspirin therapy may be advised under medical supervision. Our Obstetrics and Gynaecologists in Delhi-NCR work closely with patients to develop preventive care plans and educate them on recognising early signs.

Conclusion

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy condition, but with awareness of what preeclampsia is, vigilant recognition of preeclampsia symptoms, and prompt preeclampsia treatment, risks can be minimised. Our experienced Obstetrics and Gynaecologists in Delhi-NCR are committed to providing expert prenatal care, early detection, and tailored management to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers are vital during pregnancy—if you experience any warning signs, consult our specialists immediately. Your health and your baby’s wellbeing deserve the best care throughout this precious journey.