Many pregnant people do not experience any symptoms of preeclampsia. Thus, monitoring for the signs of the condition is important. The main signs are a consistent elevation in blood pressure and protein in the urine. Other signs of organ damage that may be present include a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), elevated liver enzymes, and increased serum creatinine.
Sometimes, people do experience symptoms, especially when the preeclampsia is severe. These include generalized swelling or swollen feet; new-onset headaches that don’t go away; visual changes (blurred vision and/or partial loss of vision); new-onset shortness of breath; pain in the mid- or right-upper quadrant of the abdomen (may feel like heartburn); reduced urinary output; and even changes in mental status (like confusion or agitation). [1] An ultrasound may show fetal signs of preeclampsia, like slowed growth of the fetus, low levels of amniotic fluid, and decreased blood flow through the umbilical cord.[2][3]
Any change or worsening in the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia should be reported immediately to a clinician, as severe preeclampsia is life-threatening to both the pregnant parent and the baby.