What Is Preeclampsia And How Can It Cause Traumatic Brain Injuries Such As Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy?

Preeclampsia is a medical condition that can happen during pregnancy. This condition can cause serious injury to the mother, along with having devastating effects on the baby. Preeclampsia can be described as an increase in the mother’s blood pressure [1], while causing damage to other vital organs such as the kidneys and liver. Many women will experience this around the 20th week of pregnancy while the mother’s blood pressure was previously normal. However, suddenly the blood pressure becomes elevated, even slightly.

Preeclampsia is a serious medical condition and if diagnosed, doctors will immediately examine when appropriate delivery of your baby should occur. Unfortunately, there is no real treatment for the condition (most recommended treatment is delivery of the baby) [2], and it will continue throughout the duration of the pregnancy. If a balance is not struck, and the baby is delivered too soon, an injury can rise due to the premature aspect of the baby. Therefore, doctors must remain attentive to factors that suggest that the mother is suffering from preeclampsia. If not diagnosed, preeclampsia can lead to serious injury in the mother and baby. Additionally, many mothers will not disclose symptoms of preeclampsia until the condition worsens (life-threatening to the mother and baby). As a result, the earlier the diagnosis by the doctor, the better chances for the mother and the baby.

Due to preeclampsia, babies can suffer from a lack of blood flow leading to placenta problems such as placental abruption, and premature delivery, along with other things. Profusion related issues can result in the following birth related injuries:

[1] Mayo Clinic Preeclampsia https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/preeclampsia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355745

[2] Healthline Preeclampsia https://www.healthline.com/health/preeclampsia#treatment