Preeclampsia is a serious blood pressure condition that develops during pregnancy. It is diagnosed when high blood pressure (140/90 mm Hg or higher) occurs together with one or more of the following after 20 weeks of pregnancy:
- Protein in the urine
- Decreased kidney or liver function
- Fluid in the lungs
- Low blood platelet count
A high blood pressure reading may be the first sign of preeclampsia. If your blood pressure reading is high, it may be checked again to confirm the results. You may have a urine test to check for protein. You may also have tests to check how your liver and kidneys are working and to measure the number of platelets in your blood. Preeclampsia puts stress on your heart and other organs and can cause serious complications. It can also affect the blood supply to your placenta, impair liver and kidney function, or cause fluid to build up in your lungs.
