Understanding Preeclampsia: Causes, Symptoms & Risk Factors

Toxemia is a condition that can cause death for both the mother and child because it often occurs during pregnancy. It is identified by a sudden elevation of blood pressure causing arteries to constrict and limit blood flow to the placenta.

Causes

• The cause of toxemia is unknown. It occurs during first pregnancies, with a lower risk in subsequent pregnancies unless it is with a new partner. There are no tests to tell if a woman is predisposed to the disease or not.

Symptoms

• Major symptoms are sudden elevated blood pressure; swelling of hands, feet and face; or high protein levels in collected urine. Abdominal pain, dizziness and headache can accompany symptoms as well.

Treatment

• Treatment can include blood pressure medication, complete or partial bed rest, and reduction of intake of salt. Many times babies will have to be born early through inducement or C-section.

Prevention

• Prevention measures include drinking water, exercise, lying on left side so blood circulates better and taking prenatal vitamins.

Resulting Complications

• Liver and kidney damage or vision problems can be a result of toxemia. Toxemia can cause convulsions that lead to coma or death. There is also a chance of stroke. These dangers are present for both mother and child.