This is a condition where raised blood pressure in pregnancy is usually combined with loss of protein in the urine. There is a varying degree of swelling in the body especially the legs. Though some swelling of the body is normal in pregnancy, when associated with high blood pressure, the woman needs evaluation. In extreme situations of high blood pressure, convulsions may be seen - a condition called eclampsia.

Reasons:
The cause for pre eclampsia is essentially unknown. It is suggested that a vascular defect at the placental level may be responsible. Immuological and genetic factors could also contribute to pre eclampsia.

Symptoms:
In cases of mild elevation of blood pressure the woman may not have any problems. In cases of severe elevation there may be headache, nausea, pain in the upper tummy and blurring of vision. The baby may be growth restricted especially if preeclampsia is long standing.

Precautions:
Though there are few reports claiming the benefit of calcium and aspirin, more research on the subject is due.

General Treatment:
Treatment depends on the severity of the hypertension, the time of pregnancy it was first detected and the condition of the baby. In severe cases, urgent delivery needs to be considered esp. if the baby is mature. Sometimes even if the baby is immature pregnancy needs to be terminated, keeping in mind the serious complications that may occur in the mother. For mild cases however, a more conservative approach may be justified. Medicines to lower blood pressure need to be administered to keep it to optimal levels. A close watch for signs of worsening hypertension needs to be sought as convulsions can occur in extreme cases.