Eclampsia: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

It is usually associated with pre-eclampsia but may occur before warning signs have been recognized. It does not necessarily mean chronic epilepsy, and monitoring remains important after birth.

Related reading: Postpartum hemorrhage: another post-birth emergency.

Severe headache, visual change, upper abdominal pain or feeling very unwell may precede a seizure, or onset may be sudden. Lack of swelling or a previously normal blood-pressure reading does not exclude danger.

Placental and vascular disturbances and their effects on the brain contribute, but seizures are not fully predictable. Clinicians also assess other causes, including epilepsy, stroke and metabolic abnormalities.

Pre-eclampsia, chronic hypertension, kidney disease, diabetes, multiple pregnancy and a previous affected pregnancy increase risk. Eclampsia can occur without known risk factors; current symptoms require attention.

Assessment starts with breathing, circulation and blood pressure, followed by platelets, liver and kidney tests, urine assessment and fetal monitoring. Atypical features may require brain imaging. Investigation must not delay emergency treatment.

Hospital teams protect breathing, control seizures and prevent recurrence, commonly using monitored magnesium sulfate, and treat severe hypertension. If still pregnant, delivery is planned after maternal stabilization according to circumstances; cesarean delivery is not automatic for every seizure.

Complications can affect the brain, lungs, kidneys or liver and include placental abruption or premature birth. Recovery follow-up covers blood pressure, kidney health and future pregnancy planning.

Antenatal attendance and blood-pressure checks help identify risk, and selected patients receive prescribed preventive treatment. Do not start aspirin or supplements instead of assessment. Follow the postpartum monitoring plan.