Olympic sprinter Tori Bowie tragically passed away at the age of 32 due to complications during childbirth. The autopsy report reveals that she was eight months pregnant at the time of her death. The potential complications listed were respiratory distress and eclampsia, according to The New York Times.
This heartbreaking event brings attention to the serious issue of maternal mortality in the United States. The country has a higher maternal mortality rate compared to other developed nations such as France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Sweden. It also highlights the severity of the Black maternal mortality crisis, as Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women, according to the CDC.
The World Health Organization identifies severe bleeding after childbirth, infections after childbirth, and conditions like preeclampsia and eclampsia as common causes of maternal death. Eclampsia is a rare but serious complication of preeclampsia.
So, what exactly is eclampsia? Eclampsia occurs when seizures occur during or after pregnancy, usually as a severe outcome of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and excess protein in the urine. It can also develop from conditions like HELLP syndrome or gestational hypertension, although preeclampsia is the primary reason for the development of eclampsia.
While eclampsia is not very common, it is a serious condition. It typically occurs without any prior history of seizures. Warning signs of eclampsia include high blood pressure, severe headaches, upper right abdominal pain, decreased urination, dark urine, vision problems, swollen hands and feet, and nausea and vomiting.
The risk of developing eclampsia is highest for individuals with preeclampsia, particularly those experiencing their first pregnancy. Other risk factors include chronic hypertension, chronic kidney disease, age (under 16 or over 35), and multiple pregnancies. Eclampsia is more prevalent in minority racial and ethnic groups, especially among Black women.
To protect oneself from eclampsia and preeclampsia, early recognition of symptoms is crucial. Patients should contact their doctors as soon as symptoms arise, particularly those with a history of high blood pressure. Regular blood pressure monitoring at home is recommended. Additionally, lifestyle behaviors like exercise, proper diet, and taking baby aspirin can help prevent and manage preeclampsia.
It is important for individuals to discuss their risks and symptoms with their doctors. Having an emergency plan in place in case of a preeclampsia diagnosis is also essential. By increasing knowledge and taking proactive measures, the risk of complications can be significantly reduced.
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