Preeclampsia And Stroke: Relationship And Risk Factors

Two important events coincide in May 2021 as they do every year: National Stroke Awareness Month and Preeclampsia Awareness Month. It may not seem like these initiatives are related, but the National Institutes of Health reports that preeclampsia is associated with a 4-fold increased risk of stroke. Ramifications for both mother and child can be devastating if health care providers fail to account for risk factors.

The relationship between stroke and preeclampsia is highly technical, and the worst-case scenario can often result in birth injuries when a physician does not provide proper care. If you or a family member have been a victim, you can discuss your legal options with a Miami birth injury lawyer.

Relationship Between Stroke and Preeclampsia 

In general, high blood pressure is a main risk factor for stroke, according to the CDC. Age is certainly a consideration, but other statistics reveal concerning links between preeclampsia and stroke:

• High blood pressure and related conditions impact up to 12 percent of all pregnancies.
• Though more than 40 percent of women experience health risks related to high blood pressure, only 25 percent have their blood pressure under control.
• Estimates indicate that up to 1 in 8 women smoke tobacco, further increasing the threat of preeclampsia and stroke.

Many risk factors overlap to create additional complications for pregnant women that may increase the danger of preeclampsia and stroke, including pre-gestational hypertension, family history, diabetes, obesity, and others.

Consulting with Your Doctor About Preeclampsia Symptoms 

Pregnant women can be their own best health care advocates by coordinating and collaborating closely with their OB-GYNs and other providers. It is important to voice your concerns when experiencing preeclampsia symptoms at various stages throughout your pregnancy. Make note of the following issues in consulting with your physician:

• Kidney issues, including excess protein or other disorders
• Severe, sudden headaches
• Changes in or difficulties with vision, such as blurred vision or sensitivity to light
• Pain in your upper abdomen that radiates through the right side
• Nausea or vomiting in excess of normal morning sickness
• Decreased urine output

If you are not comfortable with the response from your physician or the suggested course of care, it is crucial that you express your concerns. Stroke-related preeclampsia can have catastrophic consequences for both mother and child, but you are entitled to a proper wellness-based strategy to prevent harm. You may have legal options if your health care providers deviate from the standard of care designated by Florida law.

Consult with Our Florida Birth Injury Attorneys About Your Rights 

National Stroke Awareness Month and Preeclampsia Awareness Month take on new meaning for families whose lives are changed forever by medical errors. For more information on your legal remedies, please contact Freidin Brown, P.A. to schedule a free consultation at our offices in Miami or Fort Myers, FL. Our medical malpractice lawyers can advise you on your rights after reviewing the details of your case.

Resource:

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3034989/