Britannica AI Icon

Quick Summary

Eclampsia is a severe condition related to pregnancy, characterized by convulsions. It can follow preeclampsia, a condition marked by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and swelling, typically occurring in the latter half of pregnancy or shortly after delivery. Eclampsia poses a significant risk to both mother and child.12

While the exact causes are not fully understood, potential factors include malformed blood vessels in the placenta, genetic defects, autoimmune disorders, and diet. Symptoms of preeclampsia, which can precede eclampsia, include headaches and visual disturbances, though it can also be detected through monitoring blood pressure and weight gain. Treatment for preeclampsia may involve diet, medication, and activity restriction, with early delivery sometimes being an option. Eclamptic convulsions are typically treated with magnesium sulfate.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.