PROBLEMS DURING PREGNANCY: TOXEMIA AND ECLAMPSIA

Toxemia

Toxemia is not a word which is currently used. Today, the word pre-eclampsia is used and relates to a condition in which the blood pressure is raised and there may be associated swelling of the hands and face as well as the feet and ankles. Protein may also be passed in the urine. Toxemia is a serious problem that can affect women during pregnancy. There is an added strain on the mother’s kidneys and liver during pregnancy. Not only do these organs need to eliminate the toxins that are produced by the mother but they must also remove all waste products and toxins that are produced by the developing fetus. Other toxins that may be produced are also absorbed into the mother’s blood stream. If these toxins build up in the mother’s blood and the eliminatory organs are unable to remove them, then a condition known as toxemia may result.

If the expectant mother has a history of high blood pressure or kidney disease it is important that she advise her practitioner as this may lead to complications later in the pregnancy.

Symptoms that should be reported to your practitioner are: swelling of the feet and legs, high blood pressure, puffiness of the face and/or severe headaches or dizziness and any increase in your temperature.

Any or all of these symptoms could indicate a problem that needs professional advice and treatment.

Eclampsia

This is fitting which can occur when ‘toxemia’ is unable to be controlled. This is a major toxemia of pregnancy and is accompanied by high blood pressure. Eclampsia most often affects the kidney, liver, brain and placenta. This is a very serious condition and must be managed in hospital. The life of the mother and the unborn child could be placed at risk if time is wasted.