1. Recognize Your Risk Factors
Eclampsia is a medical condition that occurs during pregnancy and can be life-threatening to both mother and fetus. The occurrence of true eclampsia is relatively rare, as most cases are identified and treated in the earlier stages, known as preeclampsia. Preeclampsia symptoms include high blood pressure and elevated levels of urine protein. It is marked by an insufficient flow of blood to the uterus. Most women with preeclampsia also experience significant swelling of the hands, legs and feet.
Certain women are at higher risk for eclampsia than others. Women who are either still in their teens or over 40 years old experience greater occurrences of the condition, as do those who were obese or had high blood pressure before pregnancy. Those at risk for eclampsia also include women carrying multiples. Additionally, other medical issues like diabetes, kidney disease, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can increase the chance of eclampsia occuring. If your mother or sisters have a history of preeclampsia or you have had it in previous pregnancies, your risks of developing it are much greater. Determining whether you fall into any of the risk categories means you will be ready to spot signs of preeclampsia and prevent them from turning into full-blown eclampsia.
2. Eat Right and Stay fit Before Pregnancy
Although doctors are not entirely sure what causes eclampsia, some studies suggest that obesity and bad eating habits are partly to blame. Sticking to a healthy eating plan before and during pregnancy is thought to reduce the chances of eclampsia. That means consuming lots of fruits and vegetables, moderate portions of meat and carbohydrates and a limited amount of salts and fats. Another important element of a pre-pregnancy regimen is exercising regularly in order to maintain or get down to a healthy ideal weight, to reduce high blood pressure and to keep your body fat percentage in check.
3. Get Proper Medical Treatment
Once eclampsia sets in, the risks of premature delivery, low birth weight, seizures, comas and even death of either the mother or child increase dramatically. Taking steps to prevent eclampsia is much easier than trying to avert disaster after diagnosis.
Eclampsia only occurs if it is not caught and treated in the preeclampsia stage. As soon as you see the warning signs, talk to your doctor. He will carefully monitor your blood pressure and other symptoms and prescribe bed rest, medications or even hospitalization if necessary. Possible drugs include anti-hypertensive medications for high blood pressure, and magnesium injections to reduce the occurrence of seizures. In serious cases, the doctor will recommend delivering the baby earlier for both your health and that of your child.
