Eclampsia: An Unknown Risk

Finding out you’re pregnant can be an exciting time, but there are many risks that can complicate things if you’re not informed. One such risk that often flies under the radar is eclampsia—a condition that can cause serious harm to both the mother and the baby, and can sometimes even be fatal if not managed properly.

Eclampsia is a condition that leads to seizures and convulsions, often accompanied by other complications such as blood clots. The term "eclampsia" specifically refers to the seizures, but it typically follows a related condition called preeclampsia, which can develop during the second half of pregnancy, or even after delivery. Pre-eclampsia is harder to detect on your own because the symptoms are often vague, with examples being headaches, blurry vision, pain below the ribs, and excessive vomiting, and could happen in a normal pregnancy. That’s why regular prenatal checkups are critical. Professionals can catch preeclampsia through routine blood pressure measurements, blood tests, and urine analysis, which may reveal higher-than-normal levels of protein—a key indicator of the condition.

While preeclampsia doesn’t always show obvious symptoms, it can still cause serious damage. Women who are at higher risk include those with preexisting conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, or other autoimmune disorders. A family history of eclampsia also increases the risk. In the U.S., around 5-8% of pregnancies are affected by preeclampsia, and eclampsia contributes to roughly 15% of all premature births worldwide. Early detection and close monitoring can make all the difference in preventing the situation from escalating.

The root cause of eclampsia is still being researched, but it is generally believed to be linked to issues with the placenta, the organ that supplies nutrients and oxygen to the growing baby. If the placenta isn't functioning properly, it can lead to high blood pressure in the mother and a lack of oxygen and nutrients for the baby. As a result, the only known treatment for eclampsia is to deliver the baby. This often means premature birth, as the condition typically develops before the pregnancy reaches full term.

In fact, eclampsia is one of the leading causes of preterm birth. In the United States, it accounts for about 15% of all premature deliveries, with the condition affecting an estimated 1 in 200 pregnancies globally. Premature birth, of course, comes with its own set of challenges. Babies born prematurely are at higher risk for a variety of complications, including lung problems, difficulty regulating body temperature, and feeding difficulties.

Depending on the severity of eclampsia and how far along the pregnancy is, the doctor may opt for an early induction of labor or a cesarean section. In some cases, doctors may need to deliver the baby months before the due date in order to save the mother’s life. If the mother is not treated appropriately, both her and the baby are at risk. In the absence of delivery, the mother’s life may be in danger due to organ failure, stroke, or the possibility of further seizures. However, treatments used to stabilize the mother, such as medications to control blood pressure or prevent seizures, can have adverse effects on the baby. That’s why the timing and method of delivery are critical, and it’s often a balancing act to ensure the mother’s health while also trying to give the baby the best chance of survival.

While eclampsia itself may be rare, the increasing rate of preeclampsia and the associated risks emphasize the importance of regular medical checkups during pregnancy. A healthy pregnancy relies not just on the absence of major issues but also on being able to spot subtle problems before they escalate. With timely treatment, most women and babies survive eclampsia, but without it, the consequences can be devastating. Pregnancy can be unpredictable, and while eclampsia isn’t something that every expectant mother needs to worry about, it’s important to stay informed about the potential risks. Early detection, proper prenatal care, and close monitoring can make all the difference in ensuring the health and safety of both mother and baby.