Q: If I’m experiencing sudden swelling, blurred vision or a severe headache during pregnancy, could it be signs of preeclampsia?

Answered by: Dr Tan Niap Hong, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, and Clinical Head of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Service at Prince Court Medical Centre

Yes, these may be the symptoms of preeclampsia, which is a pregnancy complication characterised by hypertension and the involvement of other organ systems. If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for both mother and baby. 

High blood pressure in pregnancy is defined as pressure exceeding 140/90 mmHg on two separate occasions measured at least 4 hours apart. The rise in blood pressure can be insidious or sudden. Hence, the monitoring of blood pressure is important during pregnancy. Another important feature of preeclampsia is protein in the urine (proteinuria), which can be detected easily using the urine dipstick test. 

Headaches; visual disturbances such as blurred vision, light sensitivity or loss of vision; upper abdominal pain; nausea; and vomiting are symptoms associated with severe preeclampsia.