Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a dangerous combination of high blood pressure and too much protein in the urine that can happen in pregnant women after their 20th week of pregnancy. It can range from mild to severe, and often develops suddenly.

Preeclampsia affects 5 to 8% of pregnant women and their unborn children. It is the leading cause of maternal death worldwide. If not treated, preeclampsia can worsen into eclampsia, a condition that causes seizures and can be fatal. Unfortunately, preeclampsia increases the risk of fetal death. The sooner you develop preeclampsia during your pregnancy, the higher the risk.

The cure for preeclampsia is for the baby to be delivered. If it is too early for the baby to be delivered, your doctor will work with you to reduce symptoms and complications until you can deliver safely.

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Review Date: 4/27/2016  

Reviewed By: Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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