Definition:
Eclampsia is a fatal health complication that occurs during pregnancy, resulting to heightened possibility of coma or seizures. In some cases,, seizures are among the recognizable indicators of preeclampsia along with some severe headaches, double or blurred visions.
Diagnosis:
Blood pressure is usually closely monitored, blood tests to derive platelet count as well as urine and weight tests. A fetal monitor is also used to check the condition and activity of the fetus.
Treatment:
There is no known treatment for eclampsia as well as there are no existing medications that can help prevent this medical condition from occurring. Once eclampsia is detected, magnesium sulfate is administered intravenously to prevent recurrence of seizures.
Symptoms and Signs:
The primary warning sign of eclampsia is seizures in pregnant women coupled with abnormally high blood pressure. It may also be coupled with blurry vision, occasional blindness, and convulsions. Other symptoms may not be evident as it creates internal complications that may not be detected right away. This includes liver and kidney malfunctions.
Causes:
No one knows the exact causes of eclampsia but is believed to occur more often among women on their first pregnancies most especially in twins and in women who are over 35 years old. It can also be a hereditary condition that can be passed on from one generation to another.
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
