Preeclampsia (Toxemia of Pregnancy) is increase in blood pressure level during pregnancy. This usually occurs in the second half of the pregnancy. Your urine retains protein deposits and you retain water.
Preeclampsia (Toxemia of Pregnancy) risk factors
A family history of Preeclampsia (Toxemia of Pregnancy) greatly increases the possibility of occurrence. Late pregnancy, multiple child carrying mothers, young age mothers are more prone to this condition. If you have a medical history of high blood pressure or kidney ailments then your chances of preeclampsia increases. Some other risk factors include:
- Chromosomal abnormality
- maternal serum alpha feto protein
- first time mothers
Symptoms of Preeclampsia (Toxemia of Pregnancy)
High blood pressure, protein in the urine and water retention are some of the signs that indicate Preeclampsia (Toxemia of Pregnancy). These signs occur mostly in mild cases for severe cases the symptoms include:
- sensitivity to bright light
- nausea and vomiting
- headaches
- upper abdominal pain
- fatigue
- shortness of breath
- blurred vision
If you are bruising easily and urination is not adequate it is time that you reported to your doctor.
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| Preeclampsia (Toxemia of Pregnancy) treatment
Depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy the treatment path is chalked out. If you are in an advanced stage and then sometimes the doctor settles for delivery. At an earlier stage and if the preeclampsia is mild then mostly treatment consists of :
- lying on your left side – this puts the weight of the baby off the vital blood vessels
- Regular visit to the doctor
- drinking lots of water
- less consumption of salt
- bed rest
- medication
Blood pressure medicines are administered in severe preeclampsia cases. Aspirin and calcium tablets are sometimes prescribed. Sometimes even magnesium sulfate is given. Consult with your doctor for information.
Risks for the baby
The placenta may be deprived off blood, this in turn results in lower nutrients for the baby. This decreases the weight of the baby. This is a possibility and you may not necessarily encounter the same problems. With proper care and regular check us Preeclampsia (Toxemia of Pregnancy) is easily prevented.
Prevention
There is no concrete way in which you can prevent the occurrence of Preeclampsia (Toxemia of Pregnancy). Some steps however may be followed, which will prevent the pressure level from rising. Less consumption of salt is one of the factors. Drinking lots of water, proper rest, steering clear of alcohol, regular exercise, avoiding junk food helps to control pressure. Too much caffeine containing drink is best avoided. Consult with your doctor for further details on medication and additional intake of supplements.
Visit pregnancyxl.com for information on Obstetrical Complications.
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