Although proteinuria remains an important finding, preeclampsia can still be diagnosed even if protein is not present when other severe features are identified.
Other Warning Signs
I also encourage you to pay attention to symptoms that may seem like normal pregnancy discomforts but could signal preeclampsia, including:
Sudden swelling of the face or hands
Rapid weight gain caused by fluid retention
Persistent headaches that do not improve with medication
New nausea or vomiting after mid-pregnancy
Pain under your right ribs or in your right shoulder
Severe lower back pain associated with other symptoms
Blurred vision, flashing lights, or loss of vision
Shortness of breath, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing
These symptoms should never be ignored. If you experience any of them, I encourage you to contact me immediately or seek emergency medical care.
How You Can Help Protect Yourself
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent preeclampsia, there are many ways we can work together to support a healthy pregnancy. I encourage you to:
Attend every prenatal appointment.
Monitor your blood pressure if advised.
Eat a balanced, nutritious diet.
Stay well hydrated and remain physically active as recommended.
Take only medications and supplements that we have discussed together.
Report any new symptoms promptly, even if they seem mild.
HELLP Syndrome
HELLP syndrome is a rare but life-threatening pregnancy complication that is usually considered a severe form of preeclampsia. It most commonly develops during the later stages of pregnancy or shortly after delivery. The name HELLP stands for Hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), Elevated Liver Enzymes, and Low Platelet Count.
One of the challenges with HELLP syndrome is that it may occur even without the classic signs of preeclampsia, such as high blood pressure or protein in the urine. Because its symptoms can resemble common conditions like gastritis, the flu, gallbladder disease, or hepatitis, it can sometimes be difficult to recognize. I believe that early diagnosis is essential, as prompt treatment can significantly improve outcomes for both you and your baby.
Signs and Symptoms of HELLP Syndrome
If you are pregnant or have recently delivered your baby, I encourage you to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Persistent pain in the upper abdomen, especially under the right ribs, or chest discomfort
Nausea, vomiting, or severe indigestion, particularly if accompanied by abdominal pain
A severe headache that does not improve with medication
Pain in your shoulder or pain that worsens when taking a deep breath
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Blurred vision, double vision, flashing lights, or other visual disturbances
Sudden swelling of your face or hands
Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or feeling like you cannot catch your breath
Your health and your baby’s safety are my highest priorities. If you develop any of these warning signs, I encourage you to contact me or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Early evaluation and treatment can make a lifesaving difference for both you and your baby.
How I Screen for Preeclampsia
Your prenatal visits are one of the most important ways I help protect both you and your baby. At every appointment, I carefully monitor your blood pressure and check your urine for signs that may suggest preeclampsia or other pregnancy-related concerns. If I notice anything abnormal, I may recommend additional blood tests, urine tests, or ultrasound examinations to better assess your health and your baby’s well-being.
Preeclampsia can develop in any pregnancy, even if this is not your first baby. I diagnose preeclampsia when high blood pressure develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy (or within six weeks after delivery) together with evidence that other organs, such as the kidneys, liver, brain, lungs, or blood clotting system, may be affected.
As your pregnancy progresses, I will see you more frequently so I can detect any changes as early as possible.
If you have risk factors for preeclampsia, I may recommend additional screening tests, including blood tests, placental biomarker tests, or more detailed ultrasound examinations. These tests help me estimate your risk, but no single test can predict with certainty whether you will develop preeclampsia.
If you are found to be at higher risk, I will create a personalized care plan that may include low-dose aspirin, closer monitoring, more frequent prenatal visits, and regular assessment of your baby’s growth and placental blood flow. My goal is to identify potential problems early and provide timely treatment to help achieve the safest possible pregnancy for both you and your baby.
Monitoring After Delivery
My care doesn’t end when your baby is born. Preeclampsia can develop for the first time up to six weeks after delivery, even if your pregnancy was uncomplicated. I encourage you to contact me immediately if you experience severe headaches, vision changes, chest pain, difficulty breathing, persistent upper abdominal pain, nausea, or a significant increase in your blood pressure.
I also recommend regular blood pressure monitoring after delivery, whether at home or during follow-up visits. If your blood pressure remains elevated or you continue to have symptoms, I will arrange further evaluation and treatment to support your recovery.
Your Long-Term Health Matters
Having preeclampsia may increase your risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and diabetes later in life. I believe pregnancy provides valuable insight into your future health, which is why I encourage ongoing follow-up even after you’ve fully recovered.
Together, we will continue to monitor your blood pressure, weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, and overall cardiovascular health. My goal is not only to help you have a healthy pregnancy today, but also to protect your health for many years to come.