Preeclampsia is a condition experienced by pregnant women with high blood pressure and organ damage as the main markers. Usually, this condition occurs when the gestational age has reached 20 weeks or more, and can occur after delivery. This condition is a condition that can affect the health of the mother and fetus, and can have serious consequences, such as premature birth, birth defects, complications for the mother, and even death.
Preeclampsia Symptoms
There are several symptoms that are commonly felt by people with preeclampsia, including:
- High blood pressure
Preeclampsia can be characterized by high blood pressure, which is 140/90 mmHg when resting or after being measured separately at two different doctor visits.
- Proteinuria
Proteinuria is a condition in which the urine contains protein and can usually be measured or detected through a urine test.
- Pain in the head
Severe pain in the head, and pain that does not go away even after taking headache medicine.
- Impaired vision
Visual disturbances can include blurred vision, double vision, and lights that appear brighter than usual.
- Abdominal pain
Abdominal pain in the upper part, especially around the solar plexus area.
- Liver disfunction
Impaired liver function includes increased levels of liver enzymes to other more severe disorders.
- Impaired kidney function
Impaired kidney function can be in the form of increased levels of creatinine or protein in the urine.
- Swelling
Although it doesn't always occur, swelling can occur especially in the hands and feet.
- Nauseous
Lack of appetite accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
- Respiratory disorders
Interference with breathing can occur if there is swelling or fluid in the lungs.
Treatment of Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a condition that needs to be treated appropriately, according to the severity of the condition and gestational age. The following is the treatment of preeclampsia, including:
- Monitor blood pressure and fetal condition regularly.
- Get enough rest and reduce physical activity and adopt a healthy diet.
- Taking drugs to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications according to doctor's recommendations.
- If the preeclampsia experienced by the patient is severe and threatens the health of the mother and fetus, then the step that will be recommended by the doctor is to deliver as soon as possible (termination of pregnancy).
Those are some of the symptoms to the treatment of preeclampsia. If you or your closest relatives experience similar symptoms, immediately consult a trusted doctor to get further and appropriate treatment.
Article written by dr. Christian Sastra, Sp.OG (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Sentul Hospital).