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Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-related complication characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys. It typically occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the fetus.
Symptoms of pre-eclampsia include high blood pressure, protein in the urine, swelling of the hands and face, headache, blurred vision, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pre-eclampsia can progress to eclampsia, which is characterized by seizures and can be life-threatening.
The exact cause of pre-eclampsia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve problems with the placenta, which can lead to inadequate blood flow and oxygen to the fetus. Risk factors for pre-eclampsia include first-time pregnancy, a history of high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia, multiple gestation (e.g., twins or triplets), and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.
Treatment for pre-eclampsia typically involves close monitoring of blood pressure and fetal well-being, bed rest, and sometimes medications to control blood pressure or prevent seizures. In more severe cases, delivery of the fetus may be necessary, even if it is premature. Women who have had pre-eclampsia are at higher risk for future pregnancies, and close monitoring is recommended.