What is Preeclampsia and Why It’s Dangerous in Pregnancy
What Is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure (hypertension) and signs of damage to other organ systems — most often the kidneys — that develops after the 20th week of pregnancy. It is one of the most serious complications that can arise during pregnancy and is a leading cause of maternal and infant illness and death worldwide.
Left unrecognized or untreated, preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia (seizures), HELLP syndrome (a combination of liver damage, low platelets, and hemolysis), stroke, organ failure, and life-threatening complications for both mother and baby.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms?
Preeclampsia may develop without obvious symptoms, which is why regular prenatal monitoring is so important. When symptoms are present, they may include:
- Elevated blood pressure (generally 140/90 or higher on two readings taken at least four hours apart)
- Protein in the urine (proteinuria), detected through routine urine testing
- Severe headaches that do not respond to medication
- Visual disturbances, including blurred vision, flashing lights, or temporary vision loss
- Upper abdominal pain, particularly under the ribs on the right side
- Sudden swelling of the face, hands, or feet
- Nausea or vomiting late in pregnancy
- Decreased urine output
Not all swelling or headaches during pregnancy indicate preeclampsia, but any of these symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider promptly.
What Causes Preeclampsia?
The exact cause of preeclampsia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve problems with the development of the placenta. Risk factors include first pregnancy, multiple gestation (twins or more), obesity, pre-existing hypertension or kidney disease, diabetes, a personal or family history of preeclampsia, and being over age 35 or under 20.
How Is Preeclampsia Treated?
There is no cure for preeclampsia other than delivery of the baby and placenta. Treatment before delivery focuses on managing blood pressure, preventing seizures (often with magnesium sulfate), and monitoring the mother and baby closely. The timing of delivery depends on the severity of the condition and the gestational age of the baby. In severe cases, early delivery may be necessary even if the baby is premature.
When Does Preeclampsia Become a Medical Malpractice Issue?
Preeclampsia is detectable through routine prenatal monitoring — blood pressure checks and urinalysis at every prenatal visit. When a healthcare provider fails to:
- Monitor blood pressure and urine protein consistently
- Recognize and diagnose preeclampsia when signs are present
- Initiate appropriate treatment in a timely manner
- Recommend timely delivery when the condition requires it
…and the mother or baby suffers harm as a result, that failure may constitute medical malpractice. In Pennsylvania, families who have been harmed by negligent prenatal care have the right to pursue compensation. An experienced medical malpractice attorney can review your medical records and advise you on your options.
