eclampsia

CONVULSIONS that occur during PREGNANCY , usually at the later stages or during delivery. Although the cause is not known, the start of convulsions may be associated with cerebral OEDEMA or a sudden rise in BLOOD PRESSURE . KIDNEY function is usually badly affected. The condition is often preceded for days or weeks by symptoms such as headache, dizziness and vomiting, and seizures follow. The fits differ in severity and duration, and in the one in 12 fatalities, there may be a cerebral HAEMORRHAGE , PNEUMONIA or the breathing may gradually fade. The condition requires immediate treatment as it threatens both mother and baby. Treatment is by drugs and reduction of outside stimuli, and a CAESAREAN SECTION is needed.