The incidence of eclampsia is approximately 1 out of 1,500 pregnancies. It may be a very sudden gain over 1 to 2 days. The relaxation phase of deep-tendon reflexes may be prolonged. Physical evidence of trauma may be noted. Infrequently, an eye examination may note retinal changes caused by hypertension .
Nondependent edema occurs.
Magnesium sulfate is a safe drug for both the mother and the fetus when used to prevent seizures . The treatment of women with preeclampsia is bedrest and delivery as soon as viable for the fetus. Patients are usually hospitalized but occasionally may be managed on an outpatient basis with careful monitoring of blood pressure , urine checks for protein , and weight. Optimally, the condition is managed until delivery after 36 weeks can occur. For pregnancies less than 24 weeks, the induction of labor is recommended, although the likelihood of a viable fetus is minimal.