What is preeclampsia exactly? and what are the main symptoms?

Preeclampsia is a disorder that occurs only during pregnancy and the postpartum period and affects both the mother and the unborn baby. Affecting at least 5-8% of all pregnancies, it is a rapidly progressive condition characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine. Swelling, sudden weight gain, headaches and changes in vision are important symptoms; however, some women with rapidly advancing disease report few symptoms. Typically, preeclampsia occurs after 20 weeks gestation (in the late 2nd or 3rd trimesters or middle to late pregnancy), though it can occur earlier. Proper prenatal care is essential to diagnose and manage preeclampsia. Preeclampsia, Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH) and toxemia are closely related conditions. HELLP Syndrome and eclampsia are other manifestations of the same syndrome. It is important to note that research shows that more women die from preeclampsia than eclampsia and one is not necessarily more serious than the other. Globally, preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal and infant illness and death. By conservative estimates, these disorders are responsible for 76,000 maternal and 500,00 infant deaths each year. Signs and Symptoms None Hypertension Swelling or Edema Proteinuria Sudden Weight Gain Headache Nausea or Vomiting Changes in Vision Racing pulse, mental confusion, heightened anxiety, trouble catching your breath Stomach or Right Shoulder Pain Lower back pain Hyperreflexia Swelling or Edema (particularly of the hands or face) A certain amount of swelling during pregnancy is normal. Edema is the accumulation of excess fluid. It is particularly concerning when it accumulates in the face (eyes) or hands. It is normal to have trouble wearing rings throughout pregnancy. http://www.preeclampsia.org/symptoms.asp I would def. call and talk to your doctor just to make sure

i would definitely get it checked out swelling of the feet, ankles and hands and sickness are some signs of preeclamsia get it checked out to be sure. good luck with your baby :)

I agree with the first poster. It could be HELLP syndrome which affects the liver and kidneys and could potentially be fatal. You need to go in and get checked out.

Headaches, swelling, tiredness...high blood pressure. GO TO THE DR. OR AT LEAST CALL THEM! My sister almost died from this, they told her if she hadn't made it to the ER with in an hour she would have had a STROKE and died at home! This was one week after baby was born! She was hospitalized for a week and put on meds for her kidneys and liver. This is no laughing matter, if you think you have some of the symptoms, call your dr.