What Are Common Pre-eclampsia Symptoms? Understanding Pregnancy Risks

Pre-eclampsia is a potentially serious condition that affects some women during pregnancy. It typically occurs after the 20th week of gestation and can have significant implications for both mother and baby if left undiagnosed or untreated. Understanding the common pre-eclampsia symptoms as well as the rare pre-eclampsia symptoms is essential for expectant mothers and their healthcare providers to ensure antenatal care is effective and comprehensive. This article will explain these symptoms in detail, helping you navigate the complexities of pregnancy care and the importance of regular antenatal appointments. Pre-eclampsia requires careful monitoring, and it’s vital to be aware of the signs and symptoms that could indicate the onset of this condition. Whether you are attending your antenatal clinic for your regular checkups or seeking antenatal support during pregnancy, this guide will provide clarity on how to spot potential warning signs.

What is Pre-eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia is a condition characterised by high blood pressure and damage to organs, most commonly the kidneys, liver, or placenta. It can lead to serious complications, such as restricted blood flow to the placenta, which in turn can affect the baby’s growth and development. Pre-eclampsia is typically diagnosed during routine antenatal scans and antenatal checkups, where blood pressure and urine samples are regularly tested.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of pre-eclampsia is not fully understood, several factors may increase a woman’s risk of developing it, including:

• First-time pregnancy: Women who are pregnant for the first time are at higher risk.
• History of pre-eclampsia: Women who have had pre-eclampsia in a previous pregnancy are more likely to experience it again.
• Multiple pregnancies: Carrying twins or more increases the risk.
• High blood pressure or kidney disease: Women with pre-existing conditions may be more vulnerable.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the likelihood of developing pre-eclampsia.
• Age: Women who are under 20 or over 40 are at a higher risk. While the causes are still being researched, certain lifestyle factors, antenatal support, and careful pregnancy care can help manage or mitigate the risks.

Common Pre-eclampsia Symptoms

During pregnancy, it’s essential to recognise the signs of pre-eclampsia so that medical intervention can be provided as soon as possible. Here are the common pre-eclampsia symptoms that may indicate you need immediate medical attention:

1. High Blood Pressure

One of the hallmark symptoms of pre-eclampsia is high blood pressure, which is why routine monitoring of blood pressure during antenatal appointments is so crucial. Normal blood pressure for a pregnant woman is typically around 120/80 mmHg. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher may indicate pre-eclampsia. If you have elevated blood pressure, it’s important that you have frequent monitoring during your antenatal care. If left unchecked, high blood pressure can strain vital organs, leading to complications.

2. Protein in Urine

During your antenatal checkups, your urine will be tested for protein, which is another key indicator of pre-eclampsia. Protein in the urine is a sign that the kidneys may not be functioning properly, which can be a direct result of the increased pressure caused by pre-eclampsia. A protein level higher than 300 milligrams per day is considered abnormal.

3. Swelling

Mild swelling, particularly in the feet and ankles, is common during pregnancy. However, sudden or severe swelling of the face, hands, or legs can be a sign of pre-eclampsia. This happens because of the high blood pressure and damage to blood vessels, which can cause fluid retention.

4. Headaches

Severe headaches, particularly those that do not respond to usual treatments or feel different from your typical pregnancy headaches, are common symptoms of pre-eclampsia. The headache may be accompanied by blurry vision or light sensitivity.

5. Vision Changes

Blurred vision, seeing spots or flashes of light, or sudden vision loss are all common pre-eclampsia symptoms that should be taken seriously. These symptoms are caused by the increased pressure in the blood vessels that supply the eyes, resulting in visual disturbances.

6. Pain in the Upper Abdomen

Pain in the upper right side of your abdomen, below the ribs, may be a sign of liver involvement. This type of pain is often described as a sharp or constant ache and may be accompanied by nausea or vomiting. It could indicate that the liver is under stress due to pre-eclampsia.

7. Nausea and Vomiting

While nausea and vomiting are common in the early stages of pregnancy, if these symptoms persist into the second or third trimester, they could indicate pre-eclampsia, particularly if they occur suddenly and are severe. The nausea may be related to liver dysfunction or the body’s response to high blood pressure.

Rare Pre-eclampsia Symptoms

Though the common pre-eclampsia symptoms are well-documented, there are also rare pre-eclampsia symptoms that may not immediately seem linked to the condition but should not be overlooked. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to contact your antenatal clinic immediately for further evaluation.

1. Shortness of Breath

Sudden shortness of breath, particularly if it is accompanied by chest pain or a feeling of tightness in the chest, could be a sign of pulmonary oedema (fluid in the lungs), which is a rare but serious complication of pre-eclampsia. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

2. Decreased Urine Output

If you notice that you are urinating much less than usual, this could indicate kidney involvement in pre-eclampsia. Decreased urine output is a sign that the kidneys are no longer functioning properly due to the high blood pressure.

3. Seizures (Eclampsia)

In rare cases, pre-eclampsia can progress to eclampsia, which is marked by seizures. These seizures are often sudden and can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby. If you experience any signs of seizures, such as twitching, convulsions, or loss of consciousness, it’s crucial to get immediate medical help.

4. Sudden Weight Gain

While some weight gain is expected in pregnancy, sudden and unexplained weight gain of more than 1-2 kg (2-4 lbs) per week could be a warning sign of pre-eclampsia. This rapid gain is usually due to fluid retention caused by increased pressure on the blood vessels.

5. Changes in Mental Status

If you begin to feel disoriented, confused, or dizzy, this could be a sign that the brain is being affected by high blood pressure. This is a rare but serious symptom and warrants immediate medical attention.

How Can Pre-eclampsia Be Managed?

Pre-eclampsia is a serious condition that requires close monitoring, but with proper antenatal care, it can often be managed effectively. If you experience any of the symptoms discussed above, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and testing.

1. Regular Antenatal Checkups

Your antenatal appointments will include routine tests for blood pressure and protein in the urine, which can help identify pre-eclampsia early. Regular visits to your antenatal clinic can also monitor the baby’s growth and overall well-being.

2. Antenatal Vitamins

Taking antenatal vitamins, including those containing calcium, has been shown to help reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia. Your healthcare provider may also recommend additional supplementation if you are at higher risk.

3. Managing Blood Pressure

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to control blood pressure during pregnancy. These medications can help prevent the complications associated with pre-eclampsia and protect both the mother and baby.

4. Delivery

In some instances, the only way to manage pre-eclampsia is to deliver the baby. The decision on when to deliver will depend on the severity of the condition and how far along you are in your pregnancy. If you’re close to full term, your doctor may recommend early induction or a planned Caesarean section. Pre-eclampsia is a serious but manageable condition that requires regular monitoring and prompt treatment. Understanding the common pre-eclampsia symptoms and rare pre-eclampsia symptoms can help you identify early warning signs and seek the necessary care in time. By attending regular antenatal checkups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed about pregnancy care, you can reduce the risks associated with pre-eclampsia and ensure a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby.