7 symptomen van PE/HELLP

Summary

This video outlines the critical symptoms of preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, serious conditions that can occur during pregnancy. Affecting 1 in 20 pregnant women, these conditions can lead to life-threatening complications like stroke, organ damage, or even death for both mother and baby if untreated. Symptoms include rapid weight gain, persistent headaches, vision changes, sudden nausea, and upper abdominal pain. Prompt medical attention is advised if these signs appear. Proper care in developed countries reduces risks, but ongoing health monitoring is crucial post-pregnancy to prevent long-term heart and vascular issues.

Takeaways

• 🤰 Pre-eclampsia is a condition that affects 1 in 20 pregnant women, often referred to as 'pregnancy poisoning'.
• ⚠️ It can have serious consequences, especially if it occurs early in pregnancy or if symptoms are severe.
• 🌍 In third-world countries with poor care, pre-eclampsia can be life-threatening.
• 🇳🇱 In the Netherlands, with proper care, pre-eclampsia usually resolves well.
• 🚨 Complications can arise quickly, so it's crucial to contact a healthcare provider immediately if symptoms occur.
• 📈 Symptoms include swelling in the face and hands, especially around the eyes, and retaining fluid in the feet.
• 📈 Rapid weight gain of more than 3 kg per week, persistent headache, and changes in vision.
• 🤮 Sudden nausea and vomiting in the second half of pregnancy, upper right abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing.
• 👩‍⚕️ Healthcare providers will measure blood pressure and check protein levels in urine to diagnose pre-eclampsia.
• ⏰ Pre-eclampsia occurs in the second half of pregnancy and complications can arise up to several weeks after birth.
• 💔 Pre-eclampsia is associated with 30% of maternal deaths during pregnancy.

Q & A

What is preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia, often referred to as pregnancy poisoning in layman's terms, is a condition that affects approximately 1 in 20 pregnant women and can sometimes have serious consequences, especially if it occurs early in pregnancy or if the symptoms are severe.

How is preeclampsia commonly referred to in everyday language?

In everyday language, preeclampsia is often referred to as 'zwangerschapsvergiftiging' in Dutch, which translates to 'pregnancy poisoning' in English.

What are the potential serious outcomes of preeclampsia if not managed properly?

If not managed properly, preeclampsia can lead to stroke, brain hemorrhage, organ damage, premature birth, and in severe cases, death of the baby or mother.

What percentage of maternal deaths during pregnancy are related to preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome?

Thirty percent of maternal deaths during pregnancy are related to preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome.

In what period of pregnancy does preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome typically occur?

Preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome occurs in the second half of pregnancy and complications can arise up to several weeks after birth.

What are the symptoms of preeclampsia that one should watch out for?

Symptoms include facial and hand edema, especially around the eyes, weight gain of more than 3 kg per week, persistent headache not relieved by paracetamol, changes in vision such as seeing stars, flashes of light, or partial or complete loss of vision, sudden nausea and vomiting in the second half of pregnancy, pain on the right upper abdomen, a feeling of a band tightening around the abdomen, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

Why is it important to contact a healthcare provider immediately if experiencing symptoms of preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia can develop rapidly, so it is crucial to contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible to prevent severe complications.

How does a healthcare provider diagnose preeclampsia?

A healthcare provider will measure blood pressure and check the protein content in urine to establish a diagnosis of preeclampsia.

Is it possible to have preeclampsia without experiencing symptoms?

Yes, some women may not experience symptoms, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider even if there is doubt.

What is the long-term risk associated with preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome?

Preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome is a risk factor for heart and blood vessel disease later in life.

What should one do to manage the long-term risks associated with preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome?

Discuss the risks with a general practitioner to ensure periodic checks or participate in a follow-up program at a nearby hospital.

Who produced this information video on preeclampsia?

The information video was compiled by Help Scherm, an organization focused on raising awareness about preeclampsia.