Preeclampsia a condition characterized by a sharp rise inblood pressure during the third trimester of pregnancy. High blood pressure may be accompanied by edema (swelling), and kidney problems, as evidenced by protein inthe urine. Although preeclampsia is relatively common, occurring in about 5percent of all pregnancies and more frequently in first pregnancies, it can be a sign of serious problems. In somecases, untreated preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia, a life-threateningsituation for both mother and baby. |
