Eclampsia

Alternative names:

toxemia with seizures

Symptoms:

ECLAMPSIA

• seizures
• agitation (severe)
• unconsciousness for a variable period of time
• possible musculoskeletal aches and pains after an event caused by trauma

PREECLAMPSIA

• nondependent edema (Swelling of the hands and face is present upon arising. Some dependent edema--that is, a swelling of the feet and ankles--is considered normal with pregnancy.)
• weight gain (unintentional) in excess of 2 pounds per week. It may be a very sudden gain over 1 to 2 days.

Signs and tests:

ECLAMPSIA

• Involuntary movements (tonic-clonic) occur.
• The relaxation phase of deep-tendon reflexes may be prolonged.
• Breathing (respiration) may cease for brief period (apnea).
• Physical evidence of trauma may be noted.
• Infrequently, an eye examination may note retinal changes caused by hypertension.

PREECLAMPSIA

• Documented weight gain occurs.
• Nondependent edema occurs.
• Blood pressure is high, which is an increase of 15 mmHg (millimeters mercury) or more diastolic (bottom number) and 30 mmHg or more systolic (top number).
• Protein is noted in urine (proteinuria).
• The platelet count is less than 100,000/FL (thrombocytopenia).

These diseases may also alter the results of the following tests:

• hematocrit
• estriol - urine
• estriol - serum
• serum chloride
• CBC
• blood differential