Preeclampsia is a leading cause of maternal and fetus injury and death around the world. Preeclampsia involves a rapid rise in the mother’s blood pressure and typically protein in her urine. This can result in a major seizure, organ failure, birth injuries, and potentially death. There is no cure for preeclampsia. It must be closely monitored throughout the pregnancy. Yet medical providers can fail to diagnose preeclampsia. In these cases, the physician’s negligence can result in major complications for the mother and baby.
As an experienced Greenville, SC birth injury lawyer, Bobby Jones has a proven track record of advocating on behalf of victims of undiagnosed and untreated gestational diabetes. If you or someone that you know has suffered an injury as a result of an undiagnosed and untreated gestational diabetes, contact Bobby Jones Law to discuss your rights and options.
Common Symptoms of Preeclampsia
Mothers that develop preeclampsia do not always have symptoms. For those that do, some common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Swelling in the face and hands
- Shortness of breath
- Pain below the rib cage
Common Risk Factors for Preeclampsia
While preeclampsia can develop in any pregnancy, some mothers are more at risk than others. Common risk factors for preeclampsia include:
- A first pregnancy
- Under the age of 20 or over the age of 40 at the time of pregnancy
- Being pregnant with more than one fetus
- Family history of preeclampsia
- Being overweight or obese
- A history of certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease
Potential Preeclampsia Complications and Treatment
Preeclampsia can place both the mother’s and baby’s health at risk. Some common complications include placental abruption, hemolysis, eclampsia, and birth injuries. While there is no cure for preeclampsia, physicians can prescribe low-dose aspirin, calcium supplements, and diet modifications.
If a mother is diagnosed with preeclampsia, she must be carefully monitored for the duration of the pregnancy. It is often necessary for the mother to be placed on bed rest with routine checks of her urine protein and blood pressure. In serious cases of preeclampsia, it may be necessary for the physician to induce birth or perform an emergency C-section.
A physician that fails to diagnose and treat a mother for preeclampsia may be held liable for his or her negligence. Cases involving undiagnosed and/or untreated preeclampsia are never clear cut. It is important to consult with an experienced Greensville, SC birth injury lawyer to review your case.
Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Greenville, SC Birth Injury Lawyer
If you or someone you know has suffered an injury due to a South Carolina medical provider’s or hospital’s negligent actions, it is important to consult with an experienced Greenville, SC birth injury lawyer to discuss your rights and remedies. Bobby Jones Law has a proven track record of helping victims of undiagnosed and untreated preeclampsia to recover the compensation that they deserve. We proudly serve clients throughout South Carolina from our office conveniently located in Greenville. Please contact us for a FREE consultation.