PREECLAMPSIA: RISK FACTORS, COMPLICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT
A. Prithi, Adireddy Deepika Reddy*, Y. Sowmya Deepthi and Reddy Ramyalata Venkatesh
Abstract
Introduction: Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure
(hypertension), fluid retention (edema) and excessive protein levels in
the urine (proteinuria).Preeclampsia is the most common serious
pregnancy complication, affecting 4-8% of all pregnancies. The World
Health Organization (WHO) estimates that Preeclampsia is directly
responsible for 10% of direct maternal mortality in Asia. Aim: To
evaluate risk factors, complications and management of Preeclampsia.
Methodology: A prospective observational study on Preeclampsia- its
risk factors, complications and management was performed for 6
months duration in In-patient department of Gynaecology and
Obstetrics in a Tertiary Care Hospital. Results: 100 Preeclampsia cases
were collected, analysed and results were obtained. Preeclampsia was
more prevalent in the age group 21-22 years (24%) followed by 25-26years (22%) and 43%
of patients were diagnosed with Severe Preeclampsia followed by 17% with Preeclampsia.
Predominant risk factor is First Pregnancy (46%), followed by with Hypothyroidism (18%).
Predominant complication is Fetal Death (28%), followed by eclampsia (24%). Nifedipine is
the most effective drug for management of Preeclampsia and Magnesium sulfate is used is in combination with Nifedipine in severe conditions. Conclusion: Preeclampsia was more prevalent in age group between 21-24yrs and predominant risk factor was found to be first pregnancy. The major complication is fetal death and effective treatment options are Nifedipine and Magnesium sulfate.
Keywords: Preeclampsia, eclampsia, hypertension in pregnancy.
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