Preeclampsia Explained: Symptoms Every Pregnant Patient Should Know
- Posted on: May 25 2026
By: Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology in Fort Worth and Granbury, TX
Pregnancy brings many changes to your body, and while most are a normal part of the journey, some symptoms may signal a more serious condition. One condition that deserves special attention is preeclampsia, a pregnancy-related disorder that affects blood pressure and can impact both maternal and fetal health if left untreated.
The good news? Regular prenatal care plays a critical role in identifying preeclampsia early and helping patients receive the monitoring and treatment they need for a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
At Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology, our OB/GYNs and Certified Nurse-Midwives carefully monitor for signs of preeclampsia throughout pregnancy and work closely with patients to promote the safest possible outcomes for both mother and baby.
What Is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a condition that typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure and signs that organs such as the kidneys, liver, or placenta may be affected.
While the exact cause of preeclampsia is not fully understood, experts believe it is related to abnormalities in how the placenta develops and functions during pregnancy.
Preeclampsia can range from mild to severe and may develop gradually or appear suddenly. Without proper management, it can lead to serious complications for both mother and baby.
What Are the Symptoms of Preeclampsia?
One of the challenges of preeclampsia is that some patients may not notice symptoms right away. In fact, many cases are first detected during routine prenatal visits through blood pressure checks and laboratory testing.
However, symptoms may include:
- Persistent headaches that do not improve with rest or medication
- Changes in vision, such as blurred vision, seeing spots, or sensitivity to light
- Swelling of the face, hands, or around the eyes
- Sudden or rapid weight gain
- Pain in the upper right abdomen or beneath the ribs
- Nausea or vomiting later in pregnancy
- Shortness of breath
- Elevated blood pressure readings
Because some of these symptoms can overlap with normal pregnancy discomforts, it is important to contact your provider if something feels unusual or concerning.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Preeclampsia can happen to anyone, but certain factors may increase risk, including:
- First pregnancy
- A history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy
- Chronic high blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Autoimmune disorders
- Obesity
- Multiple gestation (twins or higher-order multiples)
- Maternal age over 35
Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop preeclampsia, but it may mean your provider recommends closer monitoring throughout pregnancy.
Why Is Preeclampsia Serious?
When preeclampsia develops, it can affect blood flow to important organs and the placenta.
Potential complications may include:
For Mom
- Severe high blood pressure
- Liver or kidney complications
- Seizures (eclampsia)
- Stroke
- HELLP syndrome, a serious pregnancy complication affecting the blood and liver
For Baby
- Restricted growth
- Low birth weight
- Preterm birth
- Placental abruption
- Stillbirth in severe, untreated cases
Fortunately, with modern prenatal care and early detection, most patients with preeclampsia go on to have healthy outcomes.
How Is Preeclampsia Diagnosed?
Preeclampsia is typically diagnosed through a combination of:
- Blood pressure measurements
- Urine testing for protein
- Blood work to evaluate liver and kidney function
- Monitoring fetal growth and well-being
This is one reason routine prenatal appointments are so important, even when you feel well. Regular monitoring helps identify concerns before serious complications develop.
Can Preeclampsia Be Prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent preeclampsia, but certain strategies may help lower risk for some patients.
>For individuals at higher risk, providers may recommend low-dose aspirin during pregnancy, which has been shown to reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia in certain populations.
Other important steps include:
- Attending all prenatal appointments
- Managing chronic medical conditions
- Monitoring blood pressure as recommended
- Reporting concerning symptoms promptly
- Following your provider’s guidance regarding nutrition, activity, and overall pregnancy health
Your provider can help determine whether any preventive measures are appropriate for your individual situation.
How Is Preeclampsia Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and how far along the pregnancy is.
Mild cases may be managed with:
- More frequent prenatal visits
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Additional laboratory testing
- Fetal surveillance and ultrasounds
More severe cases may require hospitalization or early delivery to protect the health of mother and baby.
Because delivery is the only definitive cure for preeclampsia, your provider will carefully balance the benefits of prolonging the pregnancy with the risks of continuing it.
When Should You Call Your Provider?
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
- Severe or persistent headache
- Vision changes
- Significant swelling of the face or hands
- Severe abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Elevated blood pressure readings at home
- Any symptom that feels sudden, severe, or concerning
Trust your instincts. If something does not feel right, it is always better to reach out and be evaluated.
Expert Pregnancy Care at Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology
Preeclampsia can sound frightening, but early detection and appropriate management make a significant difference. Regular prenatal care allows your healthcare team to monitor your health, identify concerns early, and create a plan that supports the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
At Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology, our OB/GYNs and Certified Nurse-Midwives provide personalized, evidence-based care throughout every stage of pregnancy. We are committed to helping patients feel informed, supported, and confident as they navigate pregnancy and childbirth.
If you have questions about preeclampsia or prenatal care, contact Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology today to schedule an appointment.
Posted in: Well-Woman Visit, Women's Health