Symptoms
The defining feature of preeclampsia is high blood pressure, proteinuria, or other signs of damage to the kidneys or other organs. You may have no noticeable symptoms. The first signs of preeclampsia are often detected during routine prenatal visits with a health care provider.
Along with high blood pressure, preeclampsia signs and symptoms may include:
Excess protein in urine (proteinuria) or other signs of kidney problems
Decreased levels of platelets in blood (thrombocytopenia)
Increased liver enzymes that indicate liver problems
Severe headaches
Changes in vision, including temporary loss of vision, blurred vision or light sensitivity
Shortness of breath, caused by fluid in the lungs
Pain in the upper belly, usually under the ribs on the right side
Nausea or vomiting
Weight gain and swelling (edema) are typical during healthy pregnancies. However, sudden weight gain or a sudden appearance of edema — particularly in your face and hands — may be a sign of preeclampsia.
