What should you know about eclampsia side effects?

During a seizure, the body may stiffen and jerk, awareness can be lost, and breathing may become difficult. Afterward, confusion, severe tiredness, headache, muscle soreness, or a temporary lack of memory may occur. Eclampsia can also be associated with very high blood pressure and problems affecting the liver, kidneys, blood clotting, or placenta. Reduced oxygen during a prolonged seizure can place the baby at risk, so hospital assessment is needed even when the seizure stops.

Call emergency services immediately. Keep the person on their side, move hard objects away, cushion the head, and do not put food, drink, or anything into the mouth. Do not try to hold the movements still. Clinicians may protect breathing, control seizures and blood pressure, check blood and urine, and monitor the baby. Delivery may be recommended once the parent is stabilised, depending on the pregnancy and clinical findings.

Seek emergency help for a seizure, fainting, severe or persistent headache, vision changes, severe pain under the ribs, trouble breathing, sudden swelling of the face or hands, confusion, or reduced fetal movement. These warning signs can occur before or after birth and should not be managed at home.

Ask what warning signs should prompt a return to hospital, how blood pressure and seizure medicines will be monitored, what follow-up is needed after birth, and how the plan affects the timing and method of delivery.