What is preeclampsia in pregnancy?
According to research published by StatPearls, preeclampsia is a serious complication of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure and damage to other organs, most commonly the liver and kidneys. The condition typically develops after the 20th week of pregnancy, even in women who previously had normal blood pressure.
The exact cause of preeclampsia is still unclear, but it is believed to be related to the development of the placenta and abnormalities in blood flow to this organ, explains gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Rekha Ambegaokar of Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital (India).
If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to life-threatening complications for both mother and baby, such as premature birth, placental abruption, and long-term health risks. Therefore, early detection and monitoring are essential to control the condition.
Causes of preeclampsia and eclampsia in pregnancy
Until now, the cause of preeclampsia has not been clearly defined by scientists, however, some factors causing this phenomenon have been identified.
For preeclampsia, a major cause involves abnormalities in the development of the placenta, resulting in insufficient blood flow to the placenta. A study published in Medscape lists hypertension and connective tissue disorders as causes. These can cause high blood pressure and damage to the mother’s organs.
"Another potential cause is immune system problems, where the body's immune response to the placenta is abnormal, leading to inflammation and high blood pressure," says Dr. Ambegaokar.
Genetics also play a role in the cause of preeclampsia, as women with a family history of preeclampsia are more likely to develop the condition. Additionally, existing health conditions such as chronic high blood pressure, kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders (such as lupus) can increase the risk of preeclampsia.
According to MedlinePlus - an online information service produced by the US National Library of Medicine, although the exact cause of preeclampsia is unknown, factors such as vascular problems, genetics, as well as diet and neurological factors have an impact on the likelihood of preeclampsia occurring.
Preeclampsia is characterized by sudden seizures, which occur due to a sharp increase in blood pressure and the body's inability to maintain proper blood flow to vital organs.
