Signs Of Preeclampsia And How It Is Treated

Preeclampsia is a condition some pregnant women may encounter that can negatively affect both the mother and the baby. Preeclampsia can cause high blood pressure that can then affect the other organs of the body, which can also then begin to affect the baby as well. Women with preeclampsia are closely monitored and are treated in a way that focuses on both the baby and the mother. Read on for a few signs of preeclampsia and information about how it is treated.

Signs Of Preeclampsia

  • Swelling. Most pregnant women will endure swelling throughout their pregnancy, especially in the legs and feet, as well as the hands and face. This can occur all the way through pregnancy, but it can also be a sign of preeclampsia. Always be sure to let your OB know about any of these signs. Even if you think they are normal for pregnancy, they may need to be monitored just in case.
  • Fatigue. You are also going to experience fatigue throughout your pregnancy, but with preeclampsia, you may feel even more fatigued than normal. This is because your organs may not be working as they should and so you will not feel as if you have much energy.
  • High Blood Pressure. High blood pressure is also a sign of preeclampsia. Your blood pressure may rise a bit while pregnant, but it could rise quite a bit more if you have preeclampsia. 

How Preeclampsia Is Treated

Preeclampsia is treated with medication, which can be taken either orally or it can be given as an IV. Preeclampsia is a condition that is monitored by your OB and labor may need to be induced early in order to ensure the safety of the baby. This will also depend on how far along the baby is. A C-section may also be necessary, rather than a vaginal birth. You may also have to be on bed rest for the remainder of your pregnancy if labor is not induced. This means no heavy lifting, walking should be kept to a minimum and you should be laying down or sitting with your feet up to keep swelling down.

If you have the signs of preeclampsia, you should report the signs to your OB. Be sure to listen to your OB to help treat your preeclampsia and to prevent it from affecting your unborn baby. Keep your blood pressure low by eating a healthy diet and not pushing yourself too much throughout your pregnancy.


Share