Overview
Preeclampsia is a serious blood pressure condition that develops during pregnancy. People with preeclampsia often have high blood pressure (hypertension) and high levels of protein in their urine (proteinuria). Preeclampsia usually develops after the 20th week of pregnancy.
Preeclampsia can also affect other organs in your body and cause kidney and liver damage, brain injury and other serious side effects. It’s dangerous for both you and the developing fetus. Because of these risks, your healthcare provider will need to monitor your pregnancy closely and recommend treatment right away.
How common is preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a condition unique to pregnancy that complicates between 5% and 8% of all births in the United States. It’s also the cause of about 15% of premature deliveries (delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy) in the U.S.
Is preeclampsia an emergency?
Yes, it can be. When you have preeclampsia, your blood pressure is (higher than 140/90 mmHg), and you may have high levels of protein in your pee (a sign of kidney damage). Preeclampsia puts stress on your heart and other organs and can cause serious complications. It can also affect the blood supply to the placenta, damage your liver and kidneys or cause fluid to build up in your lungs. Getting treatment is critical to avoid life-threatening complications.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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