How is preeclampsia characterized?

Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs during pregnancy, typically after the 20th week, and is primarily characterized by hypertension (high blood pressure) and proteinuria (the presence of excess protein in the urine). The hypertension indicates that the mother's blood pressure is higher than normal, which can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby if not properly managed. The proteinuria is an indicator of kidney dysfunction, which can be affected by the elevated blood pressure.

Together, these two factors are critical in diagnosing preeclampsia. This condition requires monitoring and often intervention to prevent progression to more severe issues, such as eclampsia or other complications affecting fetal development. Other symptoms like severe headaches and nausea may occur but are often secondary to the main indicators of the condition. Therefore, the focus on hypertension and proteinuria specifically distinguishes preeclampsia from other pregnancy-related issues.