WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What are preeclampsia and eclampsia? Preeclampsia is high blood pressure during pregnancy. You may also have protein in your urine. Preeclampsia can lead to eclampsia, a condition that causes one or more seizures. These conditions usually occur during pregnancy, but they can also occur up to 6 weeks after delivery. The risk is highest within a week after delivery. How are preeclampsia and eclampsia treated? Medicines may be given to lower your blood pressure, protect your organs, or prevent seizures. What do I need to know if I had preeclampsia or eclampsia during my pregnancy?Most of the time, preeclampsia and eclampsia go away after you deliver. You may continue to have symptoms for a period of time after you deliver. If you had severe preeclampsia during pregnancy, you may need to do any of the following: - See your healthcare provider several times during the week after delivery. He may check your blood pressure and order other tests. Your healthcare provider may ask you to check your blood pressure at home.
- Continue to take certain medicines for up to 6 weeks after delivery.
Call 911 for the following:You have a seizure. When should I seek care immediately? - You develop a severe headache that does not go away.
- You have new or increased vision changes, such as blurred or spotted vision.
- You have new or increased swelling in your face or hands.
- You have severe abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - Your blood pressure is higher than you were told it should be.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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