Summary about Disease
Eclampsia is a severe complication of pregnancy characterized by seizures (fits) in a pregnant woman, usually associated with high blood pressure and protein in the urine (proteinuria). It's a more serious form of pre-eclampsia and requires immediate medical attention as it can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby.
Symptoms
Seizures (tonic-clonic, meaning muscle rigidity and jerking)
Severe headache
Visual disturbances (blurred vision, flashing lights, spots)
Upper abdominal pain (typically below the ribs on the right side)
Nausea and vomiting
Swelling (edema), particularly in the face and hands
High blood pressure (often significantly elevated)
Proteinuria (protein in the urine)
Decreased urine output
Causes
The exact cause of eclampsia is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the following factors:
Abnormal placenta development: This can lead to poor blood flow to the uterus and fetus.
Endothelial dysfunction: Damage to the lining of blood vessels can cause high blood pressure and other problems.
Inflammatory responses: The body's inflammatory response may contribute to the development of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia.
Genetic factors: A family history of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia may increase the risk. Risk factors include:
First pregnancy
Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.)
Pre-existing high blood pressure
Kidney disease
Obesity
Diabetes
Age under 20 or over 35
Medicine Used
Magnesium Sulfate: This is the primary medication used to prevent and control seizures in eclampsia. It is administered intravenously (IV).
Antihypertensive Medications: Drugs such as hydralazine, labetalol, or nifedipine are used to lower dangerously high blood pressure.
Diuretics: In some cases, diuretics may be used to reduce fluid overload.
Delivery: Delivery of the baby is often the definitive treatment for eclampsia. The timing of delivery depends on the severity of the condition and the gestational age of the baby.
Is Communicable
Eclampsia is not communicable. It is a pregnancy-related condition that arises from physiological changes unique to the mother's body during gestation and is not caused by an infectious agent.
Precautions
Regular prenatal care: Attending all scheduled prenatal appointments is crucial for monitoring blood pressure, urine protein levels, and overall health.
Early detection and management of pre-eclampsia: Promptly addressing pre-eclampsia can help prevent it from progressing to eclampsia.
Blood pressure monitoring: Monitoring blood pressure at home, if recommended by a healthcare provider, can help detect early signs of hypertension.
Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and getting regular exercise can help reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia.
Inform your healthcare provider: Disclose any personal or family history of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia to your doctor.
Medication adherence: If prescribed medication for pre-eclampsia, take it as directed.
How long does an outbreak last?
Eclampsia is not an "outbreak" but rather a complication that can occur during pregnancy, labor, or postpartum (after delivery). The seizures associated with eclampsia are typically controlled with medication, and the condition resolves after delivery of the baby and placenta. In some cases, symptoms may persist for a short time postpartum.
How is it diagnosed?
Eclampsia is diagnosed based on:
Seizures: Occurrence of seizures in a pregnant or postpartum woman who has pre-eclampsia.
High Blood Pressure: Elevated blood pressure readings (typically 140/90 mmHg or higher, or significantly elevated from baseline).
Proteinuria: Presence of protein in the urine.
Other Symptoms: Evaluation of other symptoms such as headache, visual disturbances, and abdominal pain.
Blood Tests: Blood tests may be performed to assess liver and kidney function, platelet count, and other parameters.
Timeline of Symptoms
It's important to note that pre-eclampsia can develop gradually, and eclampsia is a sudden complication of it. The timeline can vary significantly from person to person.
Early Pre-eclampsia: Often asymptomatic or with mild symptoms such as slightly elevated blood pressure. It can start after 20 weeks of pregnancy, during labor, or even postpartum.
Worsening Pre-eclampsia: As pre-eclampsia progresses, symptoms such as high blood pressure, proteinuria, swelling, headache, and visual disturbances may appear.
Eclampsia: Seizures occur suddenly, indicating the progression to eclampsia. This can happen anytime during pregnancy, labor, or within the first few weeks postpartum.
Important Considerations
Eclampsia is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
Prompt diagnosis and management are essential to minimize risks to both the mother and the baby.
Delivery of the baby is often the definitive treatment, but the timing of delivery depends on the individual circumstances.
Women with a history of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia are at increased risk in subsequent pregnancies and require close monitoring.
Long-term health risks for the mother may include an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.