Eclampsia: Causes, Signs and Treatment

Eclampsia in pregnancy is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not treated on time. It usually happens in the later stages of pregnancy, after the 20th week, during labor, or sometimes even after the baby is born.

It causes seizures (sudden fits or convulsions) in women who already have high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, especially in the liver and kidneys.

If not treated quickly, eclampsia can be very dangerous for both the mother and the baby. Regular check-ups and early medical care are important to catch the problem early and prevent serious complications.

Types of Eclampsia

All types of eclampsia are serious and need immediate medical care to protect both the mother and the baby.

Antepartum Eclampsia occurs during pregnancy, mostly after 20 weeks, and it is the most common type.
Intrapartum Eclampsia happens during labor, which can be quite risky due to the strain of childbirth along with seizures.
Postpartum Eclampsia develops after delivery, usually within 48 hours, but sometimes it can occur even a few weeks later.

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Eclampsia Symptoms

Seizures or Fits: Sudden, uncontrollable shaking or convulsions.
Severe Headaches: Intense, persistent headaches that don’t go away.
Blurry Vision or Vision Loss: Seeing blurry, double vision, or temporary loss of eyesight.
Confusion or Disorientation: Feeling confused, restless, or having trouble understanding things.
Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling like vomiting, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.
Swelling: Puffiness in the face, hands, or feet due to fluid retention.
High Blood Pressure: Sudden or severe rise in blood pressure.
Abdominal Pain: Sharp pain or discomfort, especially in the upper abdomen near the liver.

Eclampsia Causes

The exact cause of eclampsia in pregnancy is not fully understood, and several factors can increase the risk.

Preeclampsia Progression: When untreated or severe, preeclampsia (high blood pressure with organ damage) leads to seizures.
Poor Blood Flow to the Placenta: Reduced blood supply to the placenta can cause high blood pressure and trigger eclampsia.
Genetic Factors: A family history of eclampsia or preeclampsia increases the risk.
Immune System Problems: Issues with the immune system may contribute to abnormal blood vessel function, leading to eclampsia.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients like calcium may increase the risk.
Multiple Pregnancies: Carrying twins or more puts extra strain on the body, increasing the likelihood of eclampsia.
Obesity or Diabetes: Pre-existing health conditions like obesity, diabetes, or chronic hypertension raise the chances.
First Pregnancy or Young Mothers: Higher risk in first-time pregnancies or in women under 20 years of age.

Risk Factors of Eclampsia

Age Extremes: Higher risk for women under 20 or over 35 years.
Personal or Family History: Increased risk if there is a history of eclampsia, preeclampsia, or hypertension in the family.
Short or Long Pregnancy Intervals: Conceiving again too soon (within two years) or after a long gap increases the risk.
Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome increase vulnerability.
IVF or Assisted Reproduction: The risk is increased for pregnancies brought on by in vitro fertilization (IVF) or other assisted reproductive methods.

Eclampsia Diagnosis

Yes, steroids can help manage polymorphic light eruption by reducing inflammation and easing symptoms like redness and itching. Topical corticosteroids are commonly used, while oral steroids may be prescribed for severe cases to control flare-ups.

Medical History and Symptoms: Doctors check for symptoms like severe headaches, vision problems, nausea, and seizures, along with a history of high blood pressure during pregnancy.
Blood Pressure Check: High blood pressure readings (140/90 mmHg or more) are a key sign.
Urine Test: To check for proteinuria, which is a sign of renal problems, in the urine.
Blood Tests: To track platelet count, renal function, and liver function.
Imaging Tests: In some cases, brain scans (like CT or MRI) are done to check for swelling or bleeding.

Eclampsia Treatment

Treatment focuses on stopping seizures, controlling blood pressure, and keeping both mother and baby safe.

Seizure Control: Magnesium sulfate is given first to stop and prevent seizures it works best for this.
Blood Pressure Management: Medicines like labetalol, hydralazine, or nifedipine are used to bring down high blood pressure and avoid more problems.
Delivery of the Baby: If things get serious, delivering the baby often by C-section is needed to protect both mother and child.
Monitoring and Support: Routine monitoring of the mother's and child's health, including blood and urine tests as well as heartbeat monitoring.
Critical Care: In situations that are severe, intensive care is provided, particularly if there are complications such as kidney problems, breathing difficulties, or other organ damage.
Postpartum Care: Even after delivery, monitoring continues to check for high blood pressure or more seizures and manage future health risks.

Quick diagnosis and timely treatment are very important to avoid life-threatening problems.

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Eclampsia Prevention

Regular prenatal check-ups to monitor blood pressure and detect early signs of eclampsia in pregnancy.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet with less salt to keep blood pressure under control.
Stay active with light exercises like walking, as advised by the doctor.
Take prescribed medications and supplements like calcium and folic acid regularly.
Reduce tension by practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
Drink plenty of water and get enough rest during pregnancy.
If there’s a history of high blood pressure or preeclampsia, follow extra care and close monitoring by a healthcare professional.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Preeclampsia involves high blood pressure and organ dysfunction during pregnancy, while eclampsia is a severe complication of preeclampsia that causes seizures. Eclampsia is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention to protect mother and baby.

Eclampsia can lead to serious complications like organ damage, stroke, placental abruption, and preterm birth. In severe cases, it may cause maternal or fetal death if not treated promptly with appropriate medical care.

In fact, if there is a history of preeclampsia or other risk factors, eclampsia may reoccur in subsequent pregnancies. A safer pregnancy and a lower risk of recurrence can be achieved with early prenatal treatment and careful monitoring.

Eclampsia can impact mental health by increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. The emotional strain of a medical emergency may require mental health support and counseling for long-term well-being.

In severe cases, eclampsia may cause long-term neurological issues like memory problems, headaches, and seizures. Early intervention and rehabilitation can help minimize these effects and improve neurological recovery over time.