'Eclampsia' is when the blood pressure is so uncontrollably high that the woman starts to fit, or experience seizures (or convulsions), and sometimes lapses into a coma. This poses the life-threatening risk of stroke for the woman and reduced oxygen to the baby. The woman is usually given magnesium sulphate though a drip in her vein, to help prevent further seizures, and often a sedative drug, such as Valium. Oxygen is given through a mask, and the woman is protected from hurting herself by placing the bed rails up and pillows around her. A tube may be placed in her mouth, to stop her from biting her tongue, as well as helping her to breathe. Drugs are given to reduce the blood pressure and the baby is monitored for distress. Sometimes women will start to labour and birth quickly, soon after this happens.
This is a scary complication for all involved, and one that is rarely seen these days, because of the treatments and actions taken early be caregivers to prevent it. While pre-eclampsia normally starts to improve once the baby is born, the risk of eclampsia can be present for up to 3 to 5 days after the birth of the baby.
