Preeclampsia: The Danger of Hypertension in Pregnancy

She had done everything right.

She attended antenatal clinics, took her supplements, and listened carefully to every instruction. Her pregnancy had been smooth. No pain. No bleeding. No alarming symptoms.

Then one evening, she complained of a severe headache and blurred vision. By morning, she was swollen, confused, and struggling to breathe.

Within hours, she was fighting for her life.

The diagnosis was preeclampsia.

Many people hear the word for the first time only when it is already causing harm.

What Is Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy-related condition characterized by high blood pressure (blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg) proteinuria (protein in the urine) (≥0.3 g/24 hours) and other signs of organ damage, most commonly affecting the kidneys and liver.

It typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy, but it can also occur:

• during labor

• shortly after delivery (postpartum preeclampsia)

It is not caused by stress, poor behavior, or emotional weakness. It is a medical condition that can affect any pregnant woman.

Why Preeclampsia Is Dangerous

Preeclampsia affects blood vessels throughout the body. These blood vessels become narrowed and damaged, reducing blood flow to vital organs.

This can lead to:

• reduced blood supply to the placenta

• organ failure in the mother

• seizures

• stroke

• premature delivery

• stillbirth

• maternal death if untreated

Preeclampsia can progress silently and rapidly, which is why it is so dangerous. In Nigeria, preeclampsia remains a major contributor to maternal mortality, accounting for an estimated 37,000 deaths each year. Studies indicate that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are responsible for approximately 28.2% to 40% of maternal deaths. Globally, about ten million mothers each year develop pre-eclampsia worldwide

What Causes Preeclampsia

The exact cause is still not fully understood, but research suggests it begins with abnormal development of the placenta early in pregnancy.

Factors involved include:

• poor blood vessel formation in the placenta

• immune system dysfunction

• genetic factors

• inflammation

Importantly, it is not caused by something the mother did wrong.

Who Is at Risk

Preeclampsia can occur in any pregnancy, but the risk is higher in women who:

• are pregnant for the first time

• have a history of preeclampsia

• have chronic high blood pressure

• have diabetes or kidney disease

• are carrying multiple babies

• are obese

• are over 35 years old

• have a family history of preeclampsia

Even women with no risk factors can develop it.

Signs and Symptoms to Never Ignore

Some symptoms may seem mild at first, but they should never be ignored.

Common warning signs include:

• persistent headache

• swelling of the face, hands, or eyes

• sudden weight gain

• blurred vision or light sensitivity

• upper abdominal pain

• nausea or vomiting late in pregnancy

• shortness of breath

• reduced urine output

Some women have no noticeable symptoms, which is why routine antenatal checks are critical.

How Preeclampsia Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis is based on:

• elevated blood pressure readings

• urine tests showing protein

• blood tests assessing liver and kidney function

• fetal monitoring and ultrasound

Regular antenatal visits are often the first line of detection.

How Preeclampsia Is Managed

There is no cure for preeclampsia except delivery of the baby and placenta.

Management depends on:

• how severe the condition is

• how far along the pregnancy is

• the health of the mother and baby

Treatment may include:

• close monitoring

• blood pressure medications

• corticosteroids to mature the baby’s lungs if early delivery is needed

• magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures

• early delivery when necessary

The goal is always to protect the life of both mother and baby.

Can Preeclampsia Be Prevented

There is no guaranteed way to prevent preeclampsia, but early and consistent antenatal care greatly reduces complications.

Preventive measures may include:

• early booking for antenatal care

• regular blood pressure checks

• urine testing at each visit

• low-dose aspirin in high-risk women (when prescribed)

• prompt reporting of symptoms

Life After Preeclampsia

Many women recover fully after delivery, but preeclampsia is not always “over” once the baby is born.

Women who have had preeclampsia have a higher long-term risk of:

• chronic hypertension

• heart disease

• stroke

This makes postpartum follow-up and long-term cardiovascular care essential.

A Final Message

Preeclampsia is not rare. It is not dramatic until it suddenly is.And it does not always announce itself loudly.

Awareness saves lives.

Every pregnant woman deserves:

• early antenatal care

• regular monitoring

• prompt attention to symptoms

• support without blame

Pregnancy should be a journey toward life, not a silent threat.

Knowing about preeclampsia can make the difference between tragedy and survival.