What is preeclampsia?
A pregnant woman with preeclampsia develops high blood pressure and protein in the urine after the twentieth week of pregnancy. Preeclampsia occurs in about 7 out of 100 pregnancies. The cause for preeclampsia is unknown. Up to 2 out of every 100 women with preeclampsia develop eclampsia, which is a life threatening illness.

What are the symptoms of preeclampsia?
Symptoms of preeclampsia include high blood pressure, leg swelling, arm swelling, facial swelling, fatigue, and rapid weight gain of more than 5 pounds (2 kilograms) per week. Additional symptoms of preeclampsia may include abdominal pain, blurry vision, decreased urination, and headache.

How does the doctor treat preeclampsia?
The only cure for preeclampsia is delivery of the fetus. Treatment focuses on reducing the blood pressure until it is safe to deliver the fetus. Treatment for preeclampsia includes bed rest and medications for high blood pressure.