The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Eclampsia

A life-threatening hypertensive emergency in pregnancy presenting with seizures.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Eclampsia?

Eclampsia is the occurrence of tonic-clonic seizures, otherwise unexplained, in a pregnant woman with preeclampsia. Seizures may occur antepartum, intrapartum, or postpartum, and develop on the basis of cerebral vasospasm, endothelial dysfunction, and edema.

The pathophysiology involves placental ischemia, impaired angiogenesis (sFlt-1/PlGF imbalance), oxidative stress, and a systemic inflammatory response. Brain imaging often demonstrates findings of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES).

The treatment approach simultaneously addresses airway protection, seizure control (magnesium sulfate is first-line), blood pressure management, and termination of pregnancy after the 34th week. Even at earlier gestational ages, delivery is decided once maternal stabilization is achieved.

Symptoms

Sudden onset of tonic-clonic seizure
Severe headache and visual disturbances
Epigastric or right upper quadrant pain
Confusion and agitation
Sudden rise in blood pressure
Postictal confusion after seizure

Risk Factors

History of severe preeclampsia
First pregnancy and advanced maternal age
Chronic hypertension and renal disease
Multiple pregnancy
Diabetes and obesity
Antiphospholipid syndrome and autoimmune diseases

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Emergency presentation when seizure or loss of consciousness develops in pregnancy
  • When severe headache and sudden visual disturbances occur
  • When right upper quadrant pain and nausea are added
  • Sudden deterioration in a pregnant woman with preeclampsia diagnosis
  • New-onset seizures within the first six weeks postpartum

Treatment Methods

01
Airway protection and lateral recumbent positioning
02
Magnesium sulfate loading and maintenance infusion
03
Hypertension control (labetalol, hydralazine, nifedipine)
04
Continuous maternal-fetal monitoring
05
Planned delivery (often cesarean) after stabilization
06
Postpartum intensive care monitoring for 24-48 hours

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Regular Gynecological Check-up

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Regular gynecological check-ups enable early diagnosis of many women's diseases and increase treatment success. It is recommended that every sexually active woman or woman over 21 see a gynecologist at least once a year.

Cervical Cancer

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Cervical cancer develops from uncontrolled growth of cells in the cervix and is among the most common women's cancers worldwide. Precancerous lesions can be recognized with regular Pap smear and HPV testing.

HPV and Vaccination

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

HPV is a common virus transmitted sexually that can lead to certain types of cancer. Vaccination provides over 90% protection against high-risk HPV strains.

Ovarian Cyst

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the ovarian tissue. Most are asymptomatic and disappear spontaneously; however, large or complex cysts can cause pain and complications.

Endometriosis

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Endometriosis affects about 10% of women of reproductive age, causing cyclic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility; combined medical and laparoscopic treatment improves quality of life.

Uterine Fibroids

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors developing from the uterine muscle layer. They affect 20-50% of women of reproductive age; most are asymptomatic, but can cause bleeding and pain.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

PCOS is the most common endocrine disease affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, characterized by androgen excess, ovulation disorder, and polycystic ovarian appearance.

Menopause

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Menopause is the life stage defined by not having a period for 12 consecutive months and the natural cessation of ovarian function. The average age is 51, but it can vary between 45-55 years.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.