Can preeclampsia happen without pregnancy?

Headache, swelling and raised blood pressure are not specific to one condition. They may relate to a blood-pressure disorder, kidney problem, medication effect or another urgent illness. If symptoms occur after a recent birth, tell the clinician when you delivered because postnatal preeclampsia can occur during that period. If pregnancy is possible, mention it before tests or treatment are chosen.

Arrange a clinical review for repeated high readings or new symptoms. The clinician may repeat blood pressure, test urine, check kidney and liver function, review medicines and ask about pregnancy or recent delivery. Keep a record of readings, symptoms and medicines. Do not borrow blood-pressure tablets or stop prescribed treatment without professional advice.

Seek emergency help for a seizure, collapse, confusion, severe chest pain or serious breathing difficulty. Seek urgent medical care for a severe headache, vision changes, severe pain beneath the ribs, sudden swelling, weakness on one side or very high blood pressure if you have been given a personal threshold. New symptoms after childbirth should be treated urgently.

Ask what may be causing the blood-pressure change, which tests are needed, whether a pregnancy test is appropriate, and how soon your readings should be reviewed. Tell the clinician about recent delivery, kidney history, medicines and any plans for pregnancy, since each can affect assessment and treatment.