When you receive a preeclampsia diagnosis, MU Health Care is here to support you every step of the way. With expert care and monitoring, you can protect your and your baby’s health.
If you've been diagnosed with preeclampsia, our team can help you manage it with the right care and work toward a healthy pregnancy.
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that typically develops after 20 weeks and causes dangerously high blood pressure. It can also affect other organs, like the kidneys, and impact your baby’s development.
The exact cause of preeclampsia isn’t fully understood, but certain factors can increase your risk, like your family history, pre-existing high blood pressure or if you’re experiencing your first pregnancy.
At MU Health Care, we focus on early detection and personalized care to help you manage preeclampsia with confidence. Together, we’ll create a plan to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible.
What Does Preeclampsia Feel Like?
Preeclampsia affects everyone differently. You may not notice any symptoms, or you might experience:
- High blood pressure (140/90 mm Hg or higher, recorded twice at least four hours apart)
- Protein in the urine, detected through routine tests
- Severe headaches that don’t improve with pain medication
- Blurred vision or light sensitivity
- Swelling in hands and face
- Sudden weight gain
- Pain under the right ribs
- Nausea or vomiting that begins later in pregnancy
When to Seek Care for Preeclampsia
Many women with preeclampsia feel fine, which is why regular prenatal checkups are essential. These visits help catch warning signs early.
If you experience severe headaches, vision changes, sudden swelling or upper abdominal pain, contact your doctor right away. These could be signs of worsening preeclampsia and may require immediate care.
Causes of Preeclampsia
The exact cause of preeclampsia isn’t fully understood, but experts believe it’s linked to problems with the placenta, which supplies oxygen and nutrients to the baby.
Some factors may increase your risk of preeclampsia, including:
- Placenta issues: Poor development or function can reduce blood flow.
- Family history: Having a close relative with preeclampsia raises your risk.
- Pre-existing conditions: High blood pressure, kidney disease or diabetes can increase your chances.
- First pregnancy: Preeclampsia is more common in first-time moms.
- Multiple pregnancies: Carrying two or more fetuses adds extra strain on the placenta.
- Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk.
- Age: Women under 20 or over 35 are at higher risk.
- Lifestyle factors: Poor diet and lack of physical activity may play a role.
While the cause isn’t always clear, knowing your risk factors can help you and your care team take proactive steps to protect your health and your baby.
How We Diagnose Preeclampsia
At MU Health Care, we take the time to understand your medical history and symptoms before making a diagnosis.
Our specialists use the latest research and advanced diagnostic tools to catch preeclampsia early, even if symptoms are mild or unclear.
Diagnostic tools may include:
- Blood pressure monitoring: Regular checks help track any changes.
- Urine tests: These detect protein in your urine, which can signal preeclampsia.
- Blood tests: These assess kidney and liver function and platelet levels.
- Fetal ultrasound: This monitors your baby’s growth and amniotic fluid levels.
- Nonstress test or biophysical profile: These tests check your baby’s heart rate and movement.
If preeclampsia is confirmed, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible.
