Protecting Expectant Mothers with Preeclampsia on the Central Coast

Having a baby is one of the most exciting times of a woman’s life. While you are pregnant, there is a five percent chance of developing preeclampsia, or toxemia. This dangerous pregnancy complication causes high blood pressure, protein in your urine, and swelling. Getting prenatal care to monitor your health is very important, as this condition can lead to a life-threatening emergency.

Find a Doctor today for prenatal visits to carefully monitor for preeclampsia on the Central Coast of California. At Dignity Health Central Coast, you and your baby’s health remain our priority throughout pregnancy and delivery — and beyond.

 

Detecting the Causes & Symptoms of Preeclampsia at Dignity Health Central Coast

Our OB/GYN doctors will care for your physical, mental, and spiritual needs while monitoring you for preeclampsia risk factors. Although preeclampsia causes are not clear, there are several risk factors that increase your risk for preeclampsia. These include:

  • More than one pregnancy
  • Obesity
  • First-time pregnancy
  • History of preeclampsia
  • History of high blood pressure or kidney disease
  • History of diabetes, lupus, or blood clotting disorder

Sometimes, you may not experience any preeclampsia symptoms. Your Dignity Health Central Coast doctor will monitor your blood pressure and unusual spikes, along with the following additional signs:

  • Upper abdominal pain
  • Headache
  • Protein in your urine
  • Swelling in your hands and face
  • Blurred vision, light sensitivity, or temporary loss of vision

Some of these signs and symptoms of preeclampsia can happen normally during your pregnancy and don’t mean you have toxemia. In a normal pregnancy, you can develop swelling in your hands and face, as well as high blood pressure. Your best course of action is to have close prenatal care for you and your baby’s well-being.

 

Personalized Treatment & Prevention for Preeclampsia

You are your best defense for preeclampsia prevention. Since there is no complete way to prevent preeclampsia, it’s important to be aware of the risks and how to control them. Additionally, listen to your doctor’s directions for lifestyle modifications and prescriptions.

Any pregnant women can develop a maternal condition. Your OB/GYN health care team at Dignity Health Central Coast will monitor your blood pressure and urine to check for abnormalities. If your symptoms of toxemia increase, your doctor will determine whether you should have your labor induced after 37 weeks.

The best preeclampsia treatment is delivering your baby. Your symptoms should subside within six weeks of your baby’s birth. If your symptoms are mild, your health care team will monitor them as your baby continues to develop in your womb.

Staying in touch with your medical care provider at Dignity Health Central Coast and attending all prenatal checkups will keep you on top of your symptoms and treatment for preeclampsia.

Dignity Health Central Coast diagnoses, monitors and provides personalized treatment for preeclampsia on the Central Coast of California.