Pre-eclampsia

I decided to look up more information on Pre-eclampsia because I didn't know all the causes and risks involved. I think at one time I knew, and I've forgotten. 
I have a co-worker that had Pre-eclampsia for two of her pregnancies and a cousin that has it. My co-worker also had Hellp Syndrome with her last pregnany. Her first baby that was 4 pounds and her second baby was 2 pounds. Both of her daughters ended up ok, but this isn't always the case.

I got all my information here and here.


What is it?:

• Blood Pressure increases
• Protein appears in the urine
• Swelling that does not go away {in legs and face}
• Usually happens in the second half of pregnancy
• Happens 5%-8% of pregnancies

Although causes are not known for sure, there are possible causes, which include:

• Genetic factors
• Dietary factors
• Blood vessel funtion
• The immune system turns against the body

Risk factors {you do not have to have all of these to get Pre-eclampsia}:

• Family history
• Multiple births
• Fist pregnancy
• Inadequate prenatal care 
• Happened in a previous pregnancy
• Obesity
• Chronic high blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• Race: African American
• Age: Under 18 years old or older than 40 years old

 What can happen {scary part}: 

• Seizure
• Stroke
• Multiple organ failure 
• Death of the mother and/or baby

If you would like to learn more about Pre-eclampsia, this is the best website I found: Preeclampsia Foundation. They even have a spot where you can donate to help with research here. They also have a walk. You can find out more about the walk here.