Preeclampsia, a condition exclusive to pregnancy, manifests as elevated blood pressure and protein in the urine, often accompanied by swelling in various parts of the body. Both the mother and the fetus face potential complications.
The exact cause of preeclampsia remains elusive. It typically arises when the placenta fails to embed itself deeply enough in the uterine wall, often due to inadequate formation of arterial networks within the placenta. This deficiency can result from various factors such as underlying health conditions like diabetes or hypertension, genetic predispositions, or an immune response to the developing placenta.
Delivery of the baby is the only definitive treatment for preeclampsia and eclampsia. However, in cases of mild symptoms, healthcare providers may opt to delay delivery to ensure the fetus reaches an appropriate stage of development before birth.
Managing mild preeclampsia
The objective in managing mild preeclampsia is to postpone delivery until the fetus reaches a viable gestational age. Rest is advised, alongside monitoring of various indicators including blood pressure, weight, urine protein levels, liver enzymes, kidney function, and clotting factors.
For severe preeclampsia, hospitalization is typically required. Treatment often involves the administration of magnesium sulfate to mitigate the risk of seizures. This medication is commonly delivered intravenously or through muscular injection. Additionally, medications to regulate blood pressure may be necessary before proceeding with delivery.
In cases of eclampsia where seizures occur, intravenous magnesium sulfate is the primary treatment. While other antiseizure medications like lorazepam (Ativan) or phenytoin (Dilantin) may be utilized, they are generally less effective in managing eclampsia. Once seizures are under control and the mother’s blood pressure stabilizes, delivery of the baby is typically performed.
Outlook
The prognosis for complete recovery from preeclampsia is typically favorable. Many women experience improvement within one to two days post-delivery, with blood pressure gradually returning to its normal pre-pregnancy levels over the following 6 to 12 weeks. Effective prenatal care plays a crucial role in minimizing complications and fatalities associated with preeclampsia. Timely diagnosis during the early stages of the condition allows for prompt treatment, significantly reducing the risks involved.