Preeclampsia
When To Call a Doctor
Someone must call 911 or other emergency services immediately if you are having a seizure (Reference eclampsia Opens New Window). Eclampsia can lead to a coma. It is life-threatening to both you and your baby.
If you are pregnant and have preeclampsia, your family and friends should know Reference how to help during a seizure.
Seek medical care immediately if you are pregnant and begin to have symptoms of preeclampsia, such as:
- Blurred vision or other vision problems.
- Frequent headaches that are becoming worse or a persistent headache that does not respond to nonprescription pain medicine.
- Pain or tenderness in your belly, especially in the upper right section.
- Weight gain of 2 lb (0.9 kg) or more over a 24-hour period.
- Shoulder, neck, and other upper body pain (this pain starts in the liver).
If you have mild high blood pressure or mild preeclampsia, you may not have any symptoms. It is important to see a health professional regularly throughout your pregnancy.
Symptoms such as heartburn or swelling in the legs and feet are normal during pregnancy. They usually aren't symptoms of preeclampsia. You can discuss these symptoms with your doctor or nurse-midwife at your next scheduled prenatal visit. But if swelling occurs along with other symptoms of preeclampsia, contact your doctor right away.
Who to see
If you get preeclampsia during pregnancy, you can be treated by:
- An Reference obstetrician Opens New Window.
- A Reference family medicine doctor Opens New Window who is experienced in obstetric care.
- A Reference perinatologist Opens New Window.
- A Reference certified nurse-midwife Opens New Window supervised by an obstetrician or a perinatologist.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Reference Making the Most of Your Appointment.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference November 5, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference William Gilbert, MD - Maternal and Fetal Medicine |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
