Pregnancy is a beautiful phase in a woman’s life, idyllically; however, this is when a woman’s body undergoes a lot of changes. While most pregnancies are smooth, complications do arise that put the lives of the mother and the baby in danger. One such complication worthy of mention is eclampsia – a rare but life-threatening condition in pregnancy that any expectant mother and her family should know about.
At Ganga Laxmi IVF, the emphasis is on imparting the right knowledge to every woman so that she may make the right choice for herself with respect to her health and well-being. In this detailed blog entry, we will explain the whole gamut concerning eclampsia, right from the causes, early warning signs, treatment options, and ways of prevention.
What is Eclampsia?
Eclampsia represents a serious pregnancy complication that brings on convulsive seizures in women who are suffering from preeclampsia-like high blood pressure with damage to an organ, such as the liver or kidneys, or symptoms after manifestations of seizures occurring before, during, or after delivery.
Very rare, yet very dangerous, eclampsia must be treated medically as a matter of urgency. Delay in treatment can cause coma, permanent damage, and, worst of all, death of the mother and the child.
What Are the Causes of Eclampsia?
Though it still remains somewhat uncertain, it seemingly manifests as complications related to untreated or poorly treated preeclampsia. A breakdown of the contributing factors is as follows:
- Preeclampsia
This is the greatest risk. Untreated or uncontrolled preeclampsia leads to eclampsia.
- Reduced Blood Flow to the Placenta
Decreased placental blood flow can injure the placenta and result in disturbances that manifest in the woman as high blood pressure and organ dysfunction.
- Blood Vessel Abnormalities
There may be abnormal development of new blood vessels during pregnancy, in particular in the placenta.
- Immune System Issues
Sometimes the body behaves abnormally to the developing fetus or placenta, causing hypertension and eclampsia.
Who Is at Risk?
Certain women are more likely to get eclampsia:
- First-time mothers
- Those under twenty years or those above thirty-five
- Those with a prior history of hypertension, kidney disease, or diabetes
- Mothers carrying multiples (twins or triplets)
- Family history indicating the presence of preeclampsia or eclampsia
- BMI is on the higher side
If any of the above apply to you, regular antenatal checkups become the topmost priority.
Recognize the Symptoms of Eclampsia early:
Unlike many disorders that build gradually, eclampsia can sneak up suddenly. Usually, it develops in women who are already manifesting symptoms of preeclampsia. Here is what to watch:
Badly dangerous signs during pregnancy, preeclampsia often starts with warning signals that are initially very subtle. The first and foremost symptom is blood pressure that rises above 140/90. You might begin noticing swelling of the face, hands, and feet, along with a drastic gain in weight as extra water is retained in the body. Another sign is the presence of protein in the urine, which is detected by your doctor during checkups. Several women find that severe headaches do not go away. Another symptom many report is blurred vision or sensitivity to bright lights. Pain in the upper side of the belly, associated with nausea or vomiting, could be a sign of concern.
When preeclampsia worsens, however, eclampsia comes in, causing seizures. There may be convulsions, stiffening of muscles, usually passing out, and sometimes confusion afterwards. Some women even go blind temporarily. Eclampsia develops suddenly and poses a very high risk to both mother and baby. Hence, any such symptoms should be treated with urgency to avoid risking life; this, even if they initially appear mild. Immediate medical attention can save lives.
Diagnosis: How is Eclampsia Detected?
Expert Gynaecologist Doctors use a combination of tests to confirm preeclampsia and watch for signs of eclampsia:
- Measuring blood pressure
- Testing urine for protein
- Blood tests for kidney and liver function
- Ultrasound to check fetal growth
- Non-stress test to keep track of the baby’s heartbeat
Immediate hospitalization will be recommended if there are signs of deterioration.
Treatment of Eclampsia
Managing eclampsia primarily aims at preventing further episodes of seizure, maintaining a stable condition of the mother, and ensuring the safety of the neonate.
- Emergency Care
To avoid and control seizure activity, intravenous magnesium sulfate is given once a seizure has occurred. It is the first-line agent.
- Control of Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is controlled by administering antihypertensive drugs within a safe range.
- Delivery of the Baby
Delivery is the only definite cure for eclampsia. If pregnancy continuation is in the latter part beyond 34 weeks or the life of the mother or baby is really in danger with induced labor or cesarean delivery, then the doctor will opt for the same.
- After-Delivery Monitoring
Eclampsia is a condition that can happen even after delivery, which is known as postpartum eclampsia, and hence, it is recommended that the person be kept under observation for at least 48 to 72 hours after delivery.
Is It Possible To Prevent Eclampsia?
This question is mostly asked, and sadly, the answer to this question is NO, Eclampsia cannot always be prevented, but with an early diagnosis and prenatal care, a lot can indeed be done.
Here are some tips:
- Make sure that you do not miss any prenatal appointments
- Check blood pressure from time to time
- Report without delay any unusual symptom
- Keep your weight in check.
- Keep a balanced diet with low salt
- Steer away from smoking and alcohol.
- Adhere to any prenatal supplements given to you (calcium, especially if prescribed).
At Ganga Laxmi IVF, our team ensures that every pregnant mother is considered for the utmost care. From day one in your prenatal check-up down to the birth of your child and beyond, your well-being is always at the forefront.
Final Thoughts
An eclampsia episode could either be out of the way or might just come crashing into somebody. Either way, there is so much good that comes with early detection, treatment, and rigorous observation. It remains not only manageable but sometimes preventable.
Unquestionably, every pregnant woman should have a wonderful journey to motherhood without anything unusual happening. Therefore, recognizing the symptoms and signs of preeclampsia and emergency when to call for help must no less than be important; it could very well save your very life. Never doubt a message your body may be sending you. That slight headache or swelling could be a potential warning. Your health is powerful. Your awareness is protection. And your care team makes all the difference. Let’s ensure that no mother walks this path alone.