Many pregnant women develop dangerously high blood pressure, a serious but highly treatable condition known as preeclampsia or pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH).
If you or your child were harmed because obstetrical caregivers failed to correctly diagnose or treat preeclampsia, eclampsia, or PIH, contact the Ohio birth injury lawyers at The Becker Law Firm. We have a solid record of holding physicians and hospitals accountable for birth injury, infant death, and maternal death from pregnancy-related negligence.
Call 216-621-3000 or send a confidential online contact form to schedule your free initial consultation.
What is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a potentially life-threatening condition that impacts approximately 5% of pregnancies globally, yet it remains one of the most misdiagnosed and misunderstood complications in maternal healthcare. This complex pregnancy-related disorder typically develops after the 20th week of pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine (a condition known as proteinuria). Despite routine prenatal care, many cases of preeclampsia go unnoticed until the condition becomes severe, underscoring the critical need for vigilance in maternal healthcare.
Key Symptoms of Preeclampsia:
- High blood pressure
- Protein in the urine
- Swelling in the hands, face, and feet (edema)
- Severe headaches
- Vision changes (e.g., blurred vision or light sensitivity)
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Shortness of breath
- Decreased fetal movement in some cases
These symptoms may advance rapidly, leading to severe complications such as stroke, kidney damage, or premature birth without timely medical intervention.
Risk Factors for Preeclampsia:
- Personal or Family History: Previous preeclampsia compounds the risk for future pregnancies.
- Maternal Health Conditions: Preexisting hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders such as lupus.
- Twin or Multiple Pregnancies: Increased placental load raises the likelihood of the condition.
- Other Factors: Advanced maternal age (over 40), first-time pregnancies, or obesity.
Pregnant women should undergo consistent prenatal monitoring to catch these warning signs early.
What is Eclampsia?
Eclampsia is the progression of unchecked preeclampsia and represents its most dangerous form. This condition involves life-threatening seizures not caused by any other underlying neurological disorder. Notably, such seizures may affect women before, during, or after labor.
Symptoms of Eclampsia Include:
- Tonic-clonic seizures (periods of muscle rigidity followed by convulsions)
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion and disorientation
- Signs of organ failure, such as decreased kidney or liver function
Untreated eclampsia can cause placenta abruption (when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall), maternal hypoxia, or even death — emphasizing the urgency of early diagnosis and treatment.
The Difference Between Preeclampsia and Eclampsia
While the two conditions are closely related, understanding their distinctions is vital
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By identifying preeclampsia early, healthcare providers can often prevent its escalation to eclampsia.
How Misdiagnosis Can Lead to Legal Cases
Preeclampsia is a well-documented medical condition with clear risk factors, symptoms, and diagnostic protocols. Yet, it remains subject to frequent misdiagnosis, often with devastating consequences.
Scenarios That Might Qualify as Malpractice:
- Failure to Diagnose: Ignoring early signs such as high blood pressure or proteinuria during routine prenatal checks.
- Delayed Emergency Response: Failing to recommend delivery or escalate care despite evidence of fetal or maternal distress.
- Improper Medication Management: Incorrect dosage or mishandling of drugs like magnesium sulfate, which can cause serious side effects if not monitored.
- Failure to Monitor at-Risk Patients: Skipping prenatal screenings for individuals with a history of preeclampsia or other risk factors.
When negligence leads to preventable harm, families often face mounting medical bills, long-term care costs, and profound emotional distress. This is where a malpractice suit becomes critical in seeking justice and compensation.
Possible damages you can seek compensation for in pregnancy malpractice cases:
- Physical Harm: Stroke, seizures, or permanent organ damage.
- Emotional strain: Coping with maternal or infant death.
- Financial burdens: Medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, or lost income.
If you suspect negligence, an experienced medical malpractice attorney can review your medical documentation, gather expert opinions, and build a compelling case to hold responsible parties accountable.
Protecting Against Preeclampsia Misdiagnosis
Both patients and providers bear responsibility in mitigating the risks of preeclampsia misdiagnosis. Expectant mothers should advocate for comprehensive monitoring and immediately report symptoms like persistent headaches, abdominal pain, or rapid swelling. Meanwhile, physicians must adhere to best practices, including frequent blood pressure screenings, urine testing, and risk assessments beginning in early pregnancy.
Take Action: Protect Your Family’s Future with The Becker Law Firm
Preeclampsia and eclampsia are among the most serious dangers in maternal health—but decisive medical care and early intervention save lives. When these conditions are overlooked or mismanaged, the results can be devastating for mothers and babies alike. If you or your child suffered due to misdiagnosed or untreated preeclampsia, you may have the right to seek answers, accountability, and the compensation you deserve.
Empower your family to move forward. The Becker Law Firm has extensive experience fighting for families affected by pregnancy malpractice cases, including preeclampsia misdiagnosis. Our compassionate attorneys are committed to guiding you through every step, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact The Becker Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and take the first step toward justice and healing.
Common Concerns About Preeclampsia and Eclampsia (FAQs)
What are the long-term effects of preeclampsia on mothers and babies?
Preeclampsia can have ripple effects long after pregnancy. Women are at greater risk for future cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and kidney issues. Meanwhile, babies born prematurely due to preeclampsia may face developmental delays, low birth weight, or respiratory problems.
How is preeclampsia diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves blood pressure checks, urine tests for protein, and potentially bloodwork to assess organ function. Fetal monitoring is also essential to ensure the baby is not experiencing distress.
Can preeclampsia recur in future pregnancies?
Yes, prior instances of preeclampsia significantly elevate the chances of recurrence. Early risk management and close prenatal care are essential for subsequent pregnancies.
What treatments are available for preeclampsia?
Treatment varies based on severity. Mild preeclampsia might only require blood pressure monitoring and lifestyle adjustments. Severe cases, however, often necessitate hospitalization, administration of magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures, and expedited delivery.
What happens if preeclampsia remains undiagnosed?
Delayed or missed diagnosis can allow the condition to evolve into eclampsia or HELLP syndrome (a severe variant of preeclampsia marked by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count), risking complications like organ damage, stillbirth, or maternal death.
Contact the The Becker Law Firm at 216-621-3000 for a free consultation.
