Pre-eclampsia is a potentially serious condition that affects some pregnant women, usually after the 20th week of pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to organs, most often the liver and kidneys.
Common Symptoms:
- High blood pressure
- Protein in the urine
- Swelling of the face, hands, or feet
- Severe headaches
- Vision changes
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
Who Is at Risk?
Higher risk in first-time pregnancies, women with a history of high blood pressure or kidney disease, pregnant women over 35, those carrying multiples, and women with obesity or diabetes.
Why Early Detection Matters
If caught early, pre-eclampsia can be managed through close monitoring, medication, and sometimes early delivery. Untreated, it can progress to eclampsia or HELLP syndrome.
What You Can Do:
- Attend all antenatal appointments
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly
- Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately
At Mascot Healthcare, we offer blood pressure checks, urine tests and pregnancy scans to help detect conditions like pre-eclampsia early. Keep attending your antenatal clinic as well.