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ABCMD definition of Eclampsia: Eclampsia is a life-threatening condition in which pregnant women experience hypertension (high blood pressure), pitting edema (swelling, most often in the face), proteinuria (protein in the urine) and convulsions or seizures before, during or shortly after childbirth.

What is Eclampsia?

Eclampsia is a life threatening and serious complication of pre-eclampsia.  Pre-eclampsia is a condition that, as you would guess, occurs prior to the onset of Eclampsia. 

Pre-eclampsia is diagnosed in pregnant women who are found to have: Hypertension (high blood pressure) on at least two separate occasions of 140/90 or more, Proteinuria (300 mg of protein collected within a 24-hour period with urine samples) and Edema (swelling due to accumulation of fluids in the body, most commonly in the face).  Pre-eclampsia most often develops in the last three months of pregnancy. Pregnant women having this condition are at risk of progressing onto full blown Eclampsia, with the onset of life threatening seizures. Eclampsia can be a threat to the life of the mother and the fetus. Studies have shown that the maternal mortality rate (death rate) in Eclampsia is around 10% and the fetal mortality rate is around 25%.

What causes Eclampsia?

The causes of Eclampsia are not yet known, however some believe the following are risk factors for Eclampsia:

·         Being older than 35 years

·         First pregnancy

·         Having twins (or a multiple pregnancy)

·         Having a problem of high blood pressure (hypertension) before pregnancy

·         Having Diabetes

·         Teenage pregnancy

·         Having kidney problems

Eclampsia, in general, has been found to be more common in African-American women. The reasons for this are not known.

What are the symptoms of Eclampsia?

The primary symptom of Eclampsia is seizures.  This is what distinguishes Eclampsia from Pre-Eclampsia. In Eclampsia, the deep-tendon reflexes become hyperactive and there is a rapid contraction and relaxation of muscles, also called tonic-clonic seizures.

The most common symptom of Pre-eclampsia is high blood pressure (hypertension). The level of blood pressure may rise gradually or it may rise at a rapid rate. Most doctors believe that the risk of Eclampsia is greater if the blood pressure is found to be above 160/110 mm Hg.

Other symptoms of Eclampsia may include severe headache, fever or elevated body temperature, abdominal pain (stomach ache) and anxiety. Women may have a blurred vision and see spots as well. 

How is Eclampsia diagnosed?

Regular prenatal medical care is very important for diagnosing Pre-Eclampsia and Eclampsia. During these prenatal visits the blood pressure is routinely checked and the urine is tested for presence of excessive or unusual amounts of protein. Pregnant women are also assessed for abnormal gains in weight and bloating.

Other routine tests for pregnant women which may help in diagnosing Eclampsia include ultrasound imaging of the fetus and the uterus. Blood tests may include blood-glucose test and a complete blood count (CBC).

How is Eclampsia treated?

Magnesium sulfate is the mainstay of treatment if Eclampsia develops. Magnesium sulfate reduces the chances of recurring seizures and convulsions. This treatment is continued for 24-48 hours.  This treatment is usually given intravenously in an intensive care unit (ICU) or in labor and delivery unit.

Treatments for high blood pressure (hypertension) are also given while treating Eclampsia. Such medications as Hydralazine and labetlol are commonly used for treatment of high blood pressure of women suffering from Eclampsia.

 This information has been reviewed by Matthew C Niesen MD, a resident at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics in order to help ensure the accuracy and completeness of information written.  However, this information may not be entirely complete and should be discussed with your physician prior to making any medical decisions or changes in your medical care.