Eclampsia is usually a result of severe preeclampsia. This is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. However, other factors may also play a role.
Eclampsia is when you experience seizures before, during, or after pregnancy.
The condition mostly happens in those who already have preeclampsia. But it’s
The exact cause of eclampsia is unknown, but preeclampsia often comes before eclampsia. Preeclampsia includes signs such as high blood pressure and proteinuria. Eclampsia refers to the seizures.
However, most people with preeclampsia won’t go on to experience eclampsia. People with severe preeclampsia are more likely to develop eclampsia.
Despite the specific cause of eclampsia being unknown, factors that may play a role in the development of preeclampsia include:
- blood vessel issues
- diet and lifestyle
- genetics
Some experts also think that people with eclampsia may experience an increase in the permeability of the blood-brain barrier.
People who develop eclampsia tend to have severe preeclampsia first.
Other risk factors may include:
- having had high blood pressure in pregnancy before
- having a family history of preeclampsia
- having an existing condition, like high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, or an autoimmune condition
- being older than 35 years
- being pregnant with more than one baby
- being pregnant for the first time
If you’re concerned that you have any of these risk factors, speak with your doctor. They can look at your personal medical history to determine your specific risk and the steps you may be able to take.
Before experiencing eclampsia, you may experience the following symptoms:
- visual disturbances
- abdominal pain
- nausea and vomiting
- headaches
- swelling of the hands and face
Symptoms of eclampsia include:
If you notice any symptoms of eclampsia, it’s important to get immediate medical help.
Treating preeclampsia can help prevent eclampsia. But eclampsia can still develop despite treatment. The condition can also occur in people who don’t have preeclampsia.
If you already have preeclampsia, make sure you’re aware of the warning signs of eclampsia. Speak with a healthcare professional if you notice any new or worrying symptoms.
Magnesium sulfate is a treatment for eclampsia that doctors sometimes give to prevent the condition in those who may be at risk. A doctor may also recommend calcium supplements if you’re low in this mineral.
Low dose aspirin may also help reduce your risk of eclampsia, though the evidence isn’t clear. Your doctor may recommend that you start taking it between weeks 12 and 16 of your pregnancy, up until week 36. However, experts don’t recommend doses higher than 150 milligrams.
In severe cases, doctors will recommend the early delivery of your baby if it’s safe to do so.
Doctors don’t know exactly what causes eclampsia, but it typically happens if you already have severe preeclampsia. The condition is characterized by high blood pressure and protein in your urine.
Certain other factors can also increase your risk of eclampsia. These include being pregnant for the first time, being over the age of 35 years, and being pregnant with more than one baby.
Other conditions—like obesity, diabetes, and kidney disease—may also increase your risk. Speak with your doctor if you have any risk factors that you’re concerned about.