What are the complications of eclampsia?
Complications of preeclampsia may include:
- Fetal growth restriction. Preeclampsia affects the arteries carrying blood to the placenta.
- Preterm birth. Preeclampsia may lead to an unplanned preterm birth — delivery before 37 weeks.
- Placental abruption.
- HELLP syndrome.
- Eclampsia.
- Other organ damage.
- Cardiovascular disease.
Is eclampsia a complication of pregnancy?
Definition. Eclampsia, which is considered a complication of severe preeclampsia, is commonly defined as new onset of grand mal seizure activity and/or unexplained coma during pregnancy or postpartum in a woman with signs or symptoms of preeclampsia.
Which of the following conditions is a possible complication of severe eclampsia?
Possible Complications Women with eclampsia or preeclampsia have a higher risk for: Separation of the placenta (placenta abruptio) Premature delivery that leads to complications in the baby. Blood clotting problems.
How does eclampsia affect the baby?
Such problems pose risks to the fetus, including: Lack of oxygen and nutrients, which can impair fetal growth. Preterm birth. Stillbirth if placental abruption (separation of the placenta from the uterine wall) leads to heavy bleeding in the mother.
Why does eclampsia happen?
What causes eclampsia? Eclampsia often follows preeclampsia, which is characterized by high blood pressure occurring in pregnancy and, rarely, postpartum. Other findings may also be present such as protein in the urine. If your preeclampsia worsens and affects your brain, causing seizures, you have developed eclampsia.
How does eclampsia cause death?
Without treatment, pre-eclampsia can cause the destruction of red blood cells, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count (HELLP syndrome) and become life-threatening. In addition, left untreated, eclampsia can cause stroke, coma and death for both the mother and baby.
How is eclampsia diagnosed?
To diagnose preeclampsia, your health care provider measures your blood pressure and tests your urine for protein at every prenatal visit. Your provider may check your baby’s health with: Ultrasound.
What happens when you have eclampsia?
Eclampsia is a severe complication of preeclampsia. It’s a rare but serious condition where high blood pressure results in seizures during pregnancy. Seizures are periods of disturbed brain activity that can cause episodes of staring, decreased alertness, and convulsions (violent shaking).