Pregnancy naturally comes with certain risks, some minor, others serious. While for many women it remains a smooth process, others may suffer complications, including preeclampsia.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in every 25 cases, approximately one pregnancy will involve preeclampsia. This is a serious condition that may have long-term consequences, especially if left untreated.
What is preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia generally appears midway through pregnancy or after delivery and involves the development of high blood pressure issues. Along with increased blood pressure, preeclampsia may also result in large concentrations of protein in the urine of the women who have it.
What are the symptoms of preeclampsia?
Other possible symptoms of preeclampsia include seizures, headache, vision problems, nausea, difficulty breathing and swelling. Women who develop preeclampsia also often suffer a heightened risk of developing issues like kidney disease, hypothyroidism, heart disease and hypertension among other conditions. Preeclampsia may also exert considerable stress on their hearts, kidneys and other organs.
How can doctors treat preeclampsia?
There are two options for treatment, early delivery of the baby or management of the mother’s blood pressure and overall condition through medication and monitoring until the delivery date. Left untreated, preeclampsia may result in brain or organ damage. It may even lead to the death of the mother or baby.
Mothers who sustain long-term health issues or whose babies suffer birth injuries as a result of undiagnosed or untreated preeclampsia may be eligible to pursue compensation for medical malpractice. Neglecting to properly identify and manage preeclampsia is life-threatening negligence that can have long-lasting consequences for those affected.
