Symptoms of Eclampsia

Eclampsia is defined by seizures, but pre-eclampsia gives warnings before them. Treat these warning signs as urgent, even if the seizure has not happened.

Warning signs in pregnancy or after delivery

• Severe or persistent headache that does not go with rest or paracetamol.
• Blurred vision, flashing lights, spots or temporary loss of vision.
• Pain in the upper right or upper middle of the abdomen, just under the ribs.
• Nausea or vomiting, especially if it starts suddenly in later pregnancy.
• Sudden swelling of the face, hands or around the eyes. Mild ankle swelling alone is common and less specific.
• Fast weight gain over a few days.
• Shortness of breath.
• Reduced movements of the baby.
• Feeling very unwell, restless or confused.

Seizure (eclampsia)

• Sudden stiffening followed by shaking of the whole body.
• Loss of consciousness, and confusion for some time afterwards.
• Breathing may stop for a short time during the fit.

What to do

1. Call 112 or 102 and go to a hospital at once.
2. During a seizure, lay the woman on her left side, clear space around her, and do not put anything in her mouth or hold her down.
3. After the fit, keep her on her side and watch her breathing until help comes.

Postpartum. A woman who has delivered can still develop these signs for up to about six weeks. A bad headache after delivery should not be ignored.

If you have any warning sign, go for a same-day check. A normal blood pressure at the last visit does not exclude a new problem.