Preeclampsia Symptoms, and Treatment in Delhi
Preeclampsia, is a hypertensive disorder that is a complication of pregnancy. It poses a threat to maternal and fetal health. In this detailed article by top Gynaecologist in Delhi from best Hospital in Vikas Puri, preeclampsia, symptoms and treatment is discussed. With impact it on the unborn child.
Symptoms of Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia can be a problem experienced in the later stages of pregnancy, after 20 weeks. While some women may not display overt symptoms. Symptoms include:
- High Blood Pressure: A consequence of this condition is elevated blood pressure, reaching levels higher than 140/90 mm Hg.
- Proteinuria: This condition involves the presence of excess protein in the urine, indicating kidney dysfunction.
- Edema: Swelling, especially in the hands and face, is a sign of fluid retention associated with preeclampsia.
- Severe Headache: Persistent, intense headaches don’t respond to usual remedies and indicative of preeclampsia.
- Visual Disturbances: Blurred vision, light sensitivity, or temporary loss of vision also occur.
- Upper Abdominal Pain: Pain in the upper abdomen, often under the ribs, signal liver involvement.
Causes
The causes remain elusive. However, following risk factors contribute to its development:
- First Pregnancy or New Partner: Women experiencing their first pregnancy or those with a new partner are at a higher risk.
- Age and Obesity: Women under 20 or over 40 and those with a body mass index (BMI) above 30 have n high risk.
- Multiple Gestations: Twins, triplets, or other multiples increase the strain on the mother’s circulatory system, raising the risk.
- Preexisting Conditions: Chronic hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders heighten the risk.
Implications
Preeclampsia poses consequences for both the mother and the developing fetus:
Maternal Complications:
- Eclampsia: Preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia, marked by seizures, posing life-threatening risks to the mother.
- Organ Dysfunction: The disorder affect the kidneys, liver, and clotting mechanisms, leading to organ failure.
Fetal Complications:
- Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR): Preeclampsia restricts blood flow to the fetus, impairing growth and development.
- Preterm Birth: To mitigate risks, doctors recommend early delivery, increasing the likelihood of preterm birth.
Detection of Preeclampsia
The following methods are employed to diagnose:
- Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regular blood pressure checks throughout pregnancy are essential. Persistent elevation may signal preeclampsia.
- Urine Tests: Periodic checks for proteinuria help identify kidney involvement, a key diagnostic criterion.
- Blood Tests: Monitoring blood parameters, including liver enzymes and platelet counts, aids in detecting organ dysfunction.
- Ultrasound: Assessing fetal growth through ultrasound identify complications associated with preeclampsia.
Treatment of Preeclampsia at Gyne hospital in Delhi
The treatment is a complex and dynamic process that alleviate symptoms, and, when necessary, ensure the well-being of both the mother and the unborn child. Here’s a detailed look at the various aspects of the treatment of preeclampsia in Delhi:
Monitoring and Hospitalization:
- Close Monitoring: Women with preeclampsia require vigilant monitoring of blood pressure, urine protein levels, and other vital signs. Regular prenatal visits are essential for tracking the progression of the condition.
- Hospitalization: In severe cases, hospitalization is necessary for continuous monitoring and prompt intervention.
Blood Pressure Management:
Antihypertensive Medications: Controlling high blood pressure is a key component of preeclampsia treatment. Medicines like labetalol, nifedipine, or methyldopa prescribed to help lower blood pressure. However, the choice of medication depends on the specific conditions
Seizure Prevention
Magnesium Sulfate: In cases of severe problems, where there is a risk of seizures (eclampsia), magnesium sulfate can be administered. This helps to prevent seizures but requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects.
Corticosteroids
Fetal Lung Maturation: If preterm delivery is anticipated due to severe preeclampsia, corticosteroids like betamethasone is given to accelerate fetal lung maturation. This is needed for reducing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome in the newborn.
Fluid Management
Fluid Restriction: While maintaining hydration is important, excessive fluid intake exacerbate complications like pulmonary edema.
Delivery
Induction or Cesarean Section: Delivery is the only cure for preeclampsia. The timing and mode of delivery depend on factors such as the severity, gestational age, and the health status of both the mother and the fetus.
Impact on the Unborn Child:
Preeclampsia has lasting repercussions for the unborn child:
Preterm Birth: Early delivery, often necessitated by this problem, exposes the child to the challenges associated with prematurity.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR): Restricted blood flow hampers the fetus’s growth, potentially leading to low birth weight.
Developmental Delays: Children born to mothers who experienced preeclampsia may face developmental delays and cognitive challenges.
Long-Term Health Risks: Offspring exposed to preeclampsia in utero may be at a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension in adulthood.
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complcation that leads to heart problems, Proteinuria and many other conditions. Consult from the doctors, Obs & gynae experts at UK Nursing Home in Vikas Puri for proper treatment course during pregnancy.
