What should you know about eclampsia in English?

Eclampsia is a seizure disorder associated with pregnancy-related high blood pressure, often called pre-eclampsia. It can happen during pregnancy, during labour, or after birth, including when earlier warning symptoms were mild or absent. A seizure may involve stiffening, jerking movements, loss of awareness, or unusual breathing. The condition can affect oxygen supply and place stress on the brain and other organs, so it cannot be safely watched at home.

Clinicians check blood pressure, urine, blood tests, symptoms, and the baby's wellbeing. Treatment may include medication to prevent further seizures, medicine to control dangerously high blood pressure, and planning delivery when it is safest. Delivery treats the pregnancy-related cause, but monitoring and treatment may still be needed after birth.

Call emergency services immediately. Keep the person away from hard or sharp objects, place something soft under the head, and turn her onto her side if this can be done safely. Do not restrain her, put anything in her mouth, or give food, drink, or tablets while she is unconscious. Note when the seizure starts and ends, and stay with her until help arrives. If she is pregnant or recently gave birth, tell the emergency team.

A seizure in pregnancy or after birth is an emergency, even if it stops quickly. Seek emergency help for severe or persistent headache, changes in vision, confusion, fainting, severe pain below the ribs, sudden swelling of the face or hands, trouble breathing, or markedly reduced fetal movement. Do not drive yourself if you feel unwell or have had a seizure. Hospital care may include observation in a high-dependency setting and discussion of delivery, including a Caesarean Section when clinically appropriate.

Ask what your blood pressure and test results show, which symptoms should prompt an immediate call, how seizure-prevention medicine will be given, and how you and the baby will be monitored. You can also ask what delivery options may be considered and which warning signs remain relevant after birth.