A toxic condition developing in the last 4 or 5 months of pregnancy that is characterized by a sudden rise in blood pressure, excessive weight gain, generalized edema (especially hands, ankles, feet and face), albuminuria, severe headache, and visual disturbances. It used to be called toxemia of pregnancy. Some rise in blood pressure is normal during pregnancy, but in preeclampsia the rise is dramatic and is accompanied by other changes. The most notable of these are high concentrations of protein in the urine and a tendency to swell up, especially in the face and hands. This can cause women with preeclampsia to put on several pounds in a few days. Also: Toxemia Of Pregnancy

	Eclampsia / Preeclampsia The Condition "Preeclampsia (toxemia in pregnancy) is a disorder of pregnancy that is characterized by hypertension (high blood pressure) and proteinuria (excessive protein in the urine), often including edema..." Recommendation Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) "Several studies imply that harmful free radicals called lipid peroxides contribute to preeclampsia [Khan KS, Chien Pl..." Recommendation Magnesium "Magnesium has been used specifically to lower blood pressure in pregnant women with preeclampsia, and as a mild anticonvulsant in cases where the condition progresses to eclampsia..." Edema (Water Retention) The Condition "...Fluid retention of pregancy also might be caused by a more serious condition called preeclampsia..." Increased Folic Acid Requirement The Condition "...Toxemia of pregnancy, premature birth, and hemorrhage are all possible in addition to the anemia of the mother..." Pregnancy-Related Issues The Condition "...Sufficient protein can be important in preventing preeclampsia..." Recommendation Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) "Several studies imply that harmful free radicals called lipid peroxides contribute to preeclampsia [Khan KS, Chien Pl..." Recommendation High/Increased Protein Diet "Adequate protein intake can prevent preeclampsia, and a higher protein diet can often successfully reverse preeclampsia..."

Last updated: Oct 26, 2007