Preeclampsia FAQ

What is the difference between Preeclampsia, Toxemia, PET, and PIH?

Preeclampsia, Toxemia, PIH, PET, as well as gestosis ephegesis serious concern, closely associated with pregnancy hypertension conditions. Toxemia is the older term based on the belief that the condition is the result of toxins (poisons), in the blood. PET (preeclamptic toxaemia) is a term used for older doctors in the UK and other countries. Ephegesis gestosis, rarely used in the United States, is a term that is usually associated with preeclampsia. PIH, the new terms, means Hypertension Induced abortion. In Preeclampsia Foundation uses the term "preeclampsia" as a generic term to cover all options for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Researchers will be more specific and relate to each subgroup syndrome as separate entities. Although the medical point of view of researchers, these can be subtle differences, they all represent a serious condition that you should not ignore.



What is Eclampsia?

Eclampsia is one of the most serious complications of severe preeclampsia. In the developed world, it is extremely rare and is almost always treatable, if necessary, intervene quickly sought. According to the "Pre-Eclampsia: Facts" (Redman, Walker, copyrights 92)

Pre-eclampsia so called because it was originally defined as a violation of previous eclampsia, although it is now known that eclamptic seizures is only one of several possible complications of the disease.
These cramps, which resulted in temporary loss of consciousness, look no different from epileptic fits… with spasms stop breathing with the mother, to make it bite her tongue, and sometimes cause urinary urine…

Eclamptic suits typically occur as a complication of acute tertiary level before eclampsia. But sometimes they arise from the blue, without any evidence of previous unrest…

These exceptions can happen at any time during the second half of pregnancy… in 1974, the case of eclampsia by 16 weeks reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association.… At the other extreme was one case, as reported at the end of 3 weeks after birth.

Without treatment eclamptic seizures can lead to coma, brain damage and, possibly, maternal and infant mortality.

How Poor Eclampsia?

Standard treatment eclampsia is magnesium sulfate. This simple salt save the mother's life. In accordance with the Joint Judicial Eclampsia (CLASP), published in The Lancet, June 95, women, magnesium sulfate was

* 52% less risk of repeated seizures than those of diazepam;
* Those who did have current exemptions were lower than those of diazepam;
* 26% lower risk of maternal death than those of diazepam;
* Children of mothers on magnesium are in a better position after childbirth, and are unlikely to need special care;
* Less likely to be ventilated or develop pneumonia or need intensive treatment than those on phenytoin;
* 67% less risk of repeated seizures than those on phenytoin;
* 50% lower risk of maternal death than those on phenytoin.

However, magnesium sulfate, is not favorable drug, and must be used for qualified medical services with appropriate infrastructure. Overdoses can, and did not raise.

It is important to note that while magnesium sulfate is often compared with Epsom salt - is not the same thing. Analysis Epsom salts of magnesium or vitamin supplements have not been shown to prevent maternal deaths due eclamptic seizures.



What is HELLP syndrome?

HELLP syndrome occurs in 4 percent to 12 percent of women who have preeclampsia. It is one of the most severe forms of preeclampsia. HELLP means: hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, as well as reduce platelets. HELLP syndrome most often affects the liver, stomach and right shoulder pain. HELLP syndrome is the most dangerous, because it could happen before the show classic symptoms of preeclampsia. Very often mistaken for influenza or gall bladder problems. It is imperative that you listen to your body: if you do not feel right to check with their health professional. If you have these symptoms, contact your health professional immediately. An excellent source of support and information is HELLP Syndrome Society started Stephen and Jennifer Bohach after the death of their daughter, Hope Taylor.


What is the definition of eclampsia?

Main Entry: eclamp sia
Pronunciation: i-'klam (r) - sE-and
Function: noun
C.: New Latin, from Greek eklampsis sudden flashing of lights in eklampein states of the former shone in lampein +
Date: about 1860
: a convulsive state; features: an attack of convulsions during pregnancy and parturition - eclamp tic / I-'klam (r) - tik / adjective

Merriam-Webster dictionary on the Internet


Who gets Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia occurs in 5-8 percent of all pregnancies, although it is most common in first pregnancies. Some studies show that an increased risk of preeclampsia in the first pregnancy with a new partner / husband, but recent studies have shown that the key factor that increased risk is not new husband, but it is actually increasing the age mother. The most significant risk factors for preeclampsia include:

* Previous history of preeclampsia, especially if it prior to the third trimester
* The history of chronic high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney disorder
* Family history disorder (such as mothers, sisters, aunts or grandmothers, who have disorders)
* Women with more than 30% of body mass index (BMI). To determine your BMI, click on the link and follow the instructions http://nhlbisupport.com/bmi/bmicalc.htm.
* Multiple pregnancies
* In the 40 or 18 years before
* Polycystic ovarian syndrome
* Volk or other autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis, or MS.


Preeclampsia What are the causes?

There are several theories, ranging from too much blood to the influx of too little. Some modern theories include:

Medical Description layperson description
Uterus ischemia / underperfusion inadequate inflow of blood to the uterus
Prostacyclin / thromboxane imbalance (ASA) Violation of the balance of hormones, which have a diameter of blood vessels.
Endothelial activation and dysfunction Damage to the lining of blood vessels, which regulates the diameter of blood vessels under the liquid and protein inside the blood vessels and keeps the coagulation of blood.
Calcium deficiency of calcium helps maintain vasodilation, and the deficit will impair function vasodilation (see above)
Hemodynamic vascular lesions injuries to the blood vessels, because of the influx of too much blood, that is the garden hose hooked to the fire hydrant
Previously existing maternal conditions Mother has undiagnosed high blood pressure or other preexisting problems, such as diabetes, lupus, sickle-cell disorders, hypothyroidism, kidney disorders, etc.
Immunological activation of immune system is of the opinion that the damage was caused by blood vessel, and in trying to correct the "injury" actually makes the problem worse (for example, scar tissue), and adds to the process.
Problems nutrition / Poor diet is not enough protein, excessive protein is not enough fresh fruit and vegetables (antioxidants), among other theories.
High body fat High fat can be a symptom of this trend relates to genetic disorders trend high blood pressure, diabetes and insulin resistance.
Lack of magnesium oxide and magnesium B6 stabilizes vascular smooth muscles and helps regulate vascular tone. Too much magnesium acts as a laxative and is not absorbed into the body.
Genetic tendency



What do preeclampsia?

It can cause your blood pressure to rise, and puts you at risk of stroke or kidney function violation, the violation of liver function, blood coagulation problems, pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs), seizures, and in severe forms, maternal and infant mortality. Because preeclampsia affects the blood and the placenta, babies can be smaller, and often born prematurely. Ironically, sometimes children can be much higher. Although maternal death from preeclampsia rare in the United States, it is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the world for mothers and babies.




As preeclampsia affects pregnancy?

Preeclampsia is often silent, appears unexpectedly during routine checks of blood pressure and urine tests. In cases like this, if a child is short-term (after 36 weeks) induced a child and the mother put watched and sent home, as usual.

If preeclampsia occurs at the beginning of pregnancy, especially for mothers expecting multiple births, its impact is more profound. Duration of work, a place of rest, medication and even hospitalization may be required to keep blood pressure under control. It is in the interest of kids to be kept in utero as long as possible. Unfortunately, the only "cure" for the disease is to deliver the child. Sometimes it is in the best interest of the mother to deliver the child to term. Medical staff may prescribe anti-hypertensive drugs, such as beta-blockers and, in rare cases, or lasix Diuretics (water pills), despite the fact that usually is not recommended. If blood pressure can be managed with medication and treatment, and the mother and / or child's health is at risk, the mother may be given steroids to help in the maturation of the infant lungs, and the child will be delivered.

When preeclampsia in pregnancy occur?

Preeclampsia can occur at any time during the pregnancy, delivery and up to six weeks after partum, although it is most frequent in the last trimester, and is converted within 48 hours after birth. Preeclampsia can develop gradually, or come on quite suddenly, even burning in a matter of hours, although the signs and symptoms may be present for months undetected or unnoticed.




Can preeclampsia occur after childbirth?

In some cases, preeclampsia does not appear until the time of delivery, or up to two weeks after partum. Although it is less dangerous for the child, it is actually the most critical time for the mother. Any of the above signs and symptoms should be cause for concern, and the mother must immediately contact its medical services.


As preeclampsia affect the child?

Prematurity

Preeclampsia is responsible for 15% of premature births in the United States each year. It is the leading known cause of premature birth. According to the March Dimes, in 2001, 476250 babies born prematurely… more than half of unknown causes. Preeclampsia is 30% of the known causes of premature - or about 70000 premature births.

A child is considered premature until 36 weeks of pregnancy (earlier this month), but the most serious problems for premature infants born before 32 weeks, approximately, in the developed countries, and later in developing countries. (In developing countries often lack the critical level of service that require preemies). Effect of prematurity, not fully aware that, even in infants, which were only slightly premature.

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

Reducing the inflow of blood to the placenta restricts the supply of food for the child and could lead to food shortages and the subsequent famine. As a result, they may be less for their gestational age. Ultrasounds can help identify IUGR. The good news is that many children who suffer from IUGR may catch up on their growth in the next few months.
It is important to note that many women blame themselves or poor nutrition for IUGR. Such problems caused by the absence of the placenta, but not the mother diet. A woman can have all the right things, but if the placenta is not capable of withstanding such nutrients together - the child will suffer.

Acidosis

The child survives, taking nutrients and oxygen through the placenta. In preeclampsia, the placenta becomes compromised, and the child begins restricting blood flow authority to limbs, kidneys and stomach in order to maintain the vital supply to the brain and heart. If the child reaches the point where there is no more margin of oxygen (as placenta separates or dies) Child body can take their energy from fuel without oxygen. This process creates toxic waste product - lactic acid. If too much lactic acid builds up the child will develop "acidosis" and become unconscious and move. Delivery is important at this stage. (thanks: Pre-Eclampsia: Facts on Redman, Walker, 92).

Death

The infant mortality rate is one of the most devastating effects of preeclampsia. It is impossible to say how many children die each year, but, according to our estimates, at least 1200 children die as a result of preeclampsia in the United States alone. Many countries do not have the means to preserve the premature baby alive. In these countries - is a significant number of deaths.

At Preeclampsia Foundation full 20% of our members have lost at least one child, or suffered a miscarriage. Because the disease can manifest in a very short time - a woman can have a normal prenatal appointments in the morning and lose their child in the afternoon. We encourage our women to unnecessary caution.

Current life tasks

Preeclampsia was associated with a variety of problems for children born prematurely, including the training of people with disabilities, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, blindness and deafness. What also raises the risk of premature extended hospitalization, and the small size of pregnancy interruption of valuable bonding time for the family. Prematurity stresses family, and this stress is compounded when the mother is also ill.

Some studies have shown that children are born with preeclamptic mothers had an increased risk of high blood pressure and diabetes later in life. Very few studies, which followed the health of these children.

Education, vigilance and being active patients can reduce some of these deaths, but ultimately, we need further studies. We need to find a remedy.




What is the treatment?

The only treatment is to deliver the child. When developing preeclampsia, a mother and her child are carefully managed. There are medicines and treatments that could prolong the pregnancy, which can increase the chances of child health and survival. Unfortunately, after the course has begun preeclampsia, maternal health must be constantly compare the health of the child. In some cases, the child must be delivered immediately, regardless of the duration of pregnancy to save the mother and / or child in your life.




What can we do?

Right now, early detection through a simple verification measures and good prenatal care can predict or delay many of the consequences of the condition. Surgical treatment saves lives. Research can provide analysis of the causes of this state, and even help to develop treatments. In Preeclampsia Foundation could help fund the research needed to find work, treatment and bring the information we already have to those who need it most. In developing countries, at least 30 per cent of maternal mortality caused by preeclampsia, and part of our mission is to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates at the international level. With your help we can achieve that mission.



Will I be able to get preeclampsia in subsequent pregnancies?

When my first pregnancy was normal…

If you had a normal first pregnancy, the risk of preeclampsia in the next pregnancy is very low, but if you have other risk factors (such as advanced maternal age, overweight, family history of hypertension), you should still be careful and Alert early warning signs. A study conducted in Aberdeen, Scotland, found that nearly 1 in 150 women, whose blood pressure was quite naturally in their first pregnancy had preeclampsia in the second pregnancy. (1992)


If I preeclampsia in my first pregnancy or earlier…

There was no significant prospective studies on the recurrence rate in subsequent pregnancies, but the consensus among experts is that preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy is the biggest risk factor for developing preeclampsia. It is absolutely wrong to say that if it had, in his first - you do not get it again. The danger, she again is approximately 20%, but the experts cite the range of 5-80%, depending on where you are in the previous pregnancy, and how much you have it.

The risk increases if your previous pregnancy after you have developed chronic hypertension, diabetes, or if you are having IVF, twins or other multiples, as well as the risk factors noted above.


If I had it in the first rather than the second…

If you do not have preeclampsia in the second pregnancy, the risk of a recurrence in the third is at a low level, although this may happen.


If I was encouraged to receive pregnant again…

Some preeclampsia traumatic experience for those who care for you as well. Sometimes the doctor feels its depth and will make recommendations for future pregnancy because they do not know what will happen, and they fear for the safety and well-being. We advise all women in this position to seek pre-pregnancy consultation with the perinatologist who specializes in preeclampsia and related diseases. They can review your chart and give you a clearer idea about your risks. Even well-meaning PCs might not have the experience to this call. No one can decide for you, but they can help you weigh your options.

Some of our experts who weighed in on this topic in the forum.



More answers to your questions that will be coming soon!

Effect of preeclampsia
After preeclampsia
Dealing with loss
What if the wife or partner of preeclampsia?
What are the long-term consequences for preeclampsia my child?
Preeclampsia and Loss
Pregnancy after preeclampsia
Global implications

If you have a question, you think we should publish on "Frequently Asked Questions" please write us directly to info@preeclampsia.org

from preeclampsia.org