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Pregnancy Toxemia (Preeclampsia)

High blood pressure and organ injury in pregnancy pose serious maternal and fetal risk.

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 Pregnancy Toxemia (Preeclampsia)?

Preeclampsia is a multisystem disorder defined as systolic BP ≥140 mmHg or diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg after 20 weeks of pregnancy together with proteinuria (≥300 mg/day) or target organ damage (renal, hepatic, neurologic, thrombocytopenia).

The disease is thought to result from abnormal placental development due to insufficient trophoblastic invasion. This leads to widespread endothelial dysfunction, vasospasm, and organ hypoperfusion.

If untreated, it may progress to life-threatening complications: eclampsia (seizure), placental abruption, HELLP syndrome, and maternal stroke. Delivery is the most effective treatment, but the decision must consider fetal maturity.

Symptoms

Severe headache (especially frontal)
Visual disturbances (photopsia, blurring)
Right upper quadrant or epigastric pain
Sudden marked face, hand, and foot edema
High blood pressure (≥140/90 mmHg)
Abnormal protein test, decreased urine output

Risk Factors

First pregnancy or pregnancy with a new partner
History of prior preeclampsia
Chronic hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease
Multiple gestation
Advanced maternal age (>40) or obesity
Thrombophilia or autoimmune disease

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Immediately for headache, vision changes, or upper abdominal pain
  • When home BP measurement is ≥140/90 mmHg
  • When sudden marked edema develops
  • When decreased fetal movement is felt

Treatment Methods

01
Hospitalization: close maternal and fetal monitoring
02
Antihypertensive therapy: methyldopa, labetalol, or nifedipine
03
Magnesium sulfate: prophylaxis and treatment of eclampsia
04
Corticosteroids: for fetal lung maturity before 34 weeks
05
Delivery: elective at ≥37 weeks; earlier in severe preeclampsia
06
Aspirin prophylaxis: started early in subsequent pregnancies

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

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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.