|
|
|
Anti-aging: Is it really possible?
Although it is obviously not possible to turn the clock back entirely, we can take many steps now to ensure that not only do we slow down the aging process, but we can also reverse many of the signs of aging that we may presently be experiencing. ...
How To Incorporate Exercise Into Everyday Life
With many of us having sedentary jobs that demand little or no exercise at all, finding time outside of our work environment for exercise has become increasingly important. Lack of exercise is linked to many conditions and illnesses, such as...
Laser Hair Removal Frequently Asked Questions
Laser Hair Removal Frequently Asked Questions There is such excitement in this cutting edge technology for laser hair removal. In order to decide if you want to use laser hair removal, you can check online for research and then you would need a...
The History of Erectile Dysfunction and Prescription Drugs
Modern sciences have changed the concept of erectile dysfunction, beforehand impotence was linked with age; people used to believe that ED was common with the growth of age.
Fortunately modern sciences and changing attitude has debunked this...
The Missing Piece
The Missing Piece By Monty J. Sharp, Certified Comprehensive Coach http://www.workteamcoaching.com We’ve all heard the remarkable stories of people that achieved remarkable things in their life, career or business. We’ve been to the motivational...
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Understanding Preeclampsia
What is preeclampsia?
Once known as toxemia, it is caused by a defect in the placenta
which causes a pregnant woman's blood pressure to rise,
endangering mother and baby. Affecting about 7% all pregnancies,
it is the most common of the serious complications of pregnancy.
About one in 50 women are afflicted by severe preeclampsia.
In severe cases, preeclampsia can be very dangerous to both
mother and baby. The mother could develop seizures and, due to
the possibility of a low platelet count caused by the disease,
could hemorrhage. In the meantime the baby would be living in a
hostile environment due to the elevated blood pressure. There
would be a reduced level of blood flow to the baby, which would
result in a reduced flow of oxygen and nourishment.
Am I at risk of preeclampsia?
Those most at risk are women with family histories of
preeclampsia, long-standing high blood pressure or kidney
disease, pregnancy-induced diabetes, autoimmune diseases such as
systemic lupus, and those over 40 years old.
When in pregnancy does preeclampsia occur?
Preeclampsia is a disease that usually afflicts the second half
of pregnancy, usually within the last weeks of a woman's term.
In certain cases, such as those with risk factors, it can occur
much earlier.
What are the symptoms of preeclampsia?
Some symptoms include blurred vision, headaches, upper- right
abdominal pain, swelling in the hands or face, infrequent
urination, and rapid weight gain. Unfortunately, many of these
symptoms are not specific only to preeclampsia; many of them are
also associated with a normal pregnancy. Because of this, it is
important to talk to your doctor about
preeclampsia to be sure.
The most common indicator of preeclampsia is an elevation in
blood pressure. For some women, a blood pressure of 130/80 can
signal the condition, while others may not be diagnosed until
their blood pressure is much higher. It all depends on the base
blood pressure. If the upper number goes up by 30 or if the
bottom number goes up by 15, preeclampsia is suspected.
How will my doctor be sure?
Blood tests can be done, and preeclampsia can be indicated by a
low platelet count or abnormal liver or kidney test results.
Protein in the woman's urine can also lead to diagnosis of the
situation.
Is there a cure?
Preeclampsia is curable only by delivery. In severe cases, the
doctor may insist on a caesarian section. Delivery of babies
early due to preeclampsia includes an added risk of death due to
prematurity.
Will preeclampsia reoccur?
About ten percent of women will have preeclampsia in a
subsequent pregnancy. The chances of reoccurrence increase in
women with high risk factors.
Are there any permanent side effects?
There are no long term effects associated with preeclampsia.
About ten percent of women with preeclampsia may have high blood
pressure for a few weeks after delivery. Although it may cause
very high blood pressure during pregnancy, preeclampsia is not a
predictor of high blood pressure later in life.
About the author:
Susan Tanner is a wife and mother of three. She is also the
editor of pregnancy-guide.net. Pregnancy-Guide is an online
community for mothers to find support and valuable information.
Please visit Pregnancy-Guide at http://www.pregnancy-guide.net
|
|
|
|
|
|