Pregnancy-related toxemia is a common condition in expectant mothers during the first and last three months, causing symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, swelling, increased blood pressure, and urinary protein. Without treatment, it can lead to pre-eclampsia, seizures, and a high risk of respiratory distress in newborns.
1. Pregnancy-Related Toxemia in the First Trimester
Mild Pregnancy-Related Toxemia
'Morning sickness' is the manifestation of mild pregnancy-related toxemia. Mothers often feel fatigued, lose appetite, experience nausea, vomiting, excessive salivation, hoarseness, weight loss, and paleness. Preferences for certain foods may change, and pregnant individuals may avoid rice, craving snacks, favoring sour and sweet foods.
Mild pregnancy-related toxemia during this period begins around the first month of pregnancy and lasts up to three months. Symptoms gradually decrease, and mothers return to a normal state. Although weight loss may occur, it is not severe.
Severe Pregnancy-Related Toxemia
In cases of severe pregnancy-related toxemia, the progression is different. At this point, pregnant individuals may experience symptoms similar to mild toxemia but usually earlier and with increasing severity, particularly in terms of vomiting. Anything consumed leads to immediate vomiting, and even after emptying the stomach, dry heaving continues. Due to the inability to eat and excessive vomiting, the pregnant body becomes dehydrated, visibly losing weight.
During this period, expectant mothers need rest, should consume light meals, and divide their intake into several small meals throughout the day. Seek advice from specialized doctors to consider using anti-nausea medications.
2. Pregnancy-Related Toxemia in the Last Trimester
Symptoms
Swelling in Both Feet:Causes
The specific causes have not been clearly confirmed, but according to doctors, individuals affected by this condition may be influenced by factors such as:
- Pregnant individuals, especially with their first child.
- Pregnant individuals working excessively, experiencing fatigue.
- Seasonal changes or sudden temperature drops.
- Pregnant individuals consuming unfamiliar foods (prone to allergies).
Treatment Approach
It is essential to visit the hospital for medical assistance to prevent the condition from progressing and avoid complications. Doctors will assess the normal development of the fetus, minimizing the risk of fetal growth restriction. Without treatment, there is a high risk of maternal mortality due to increasing physical weakness.
Some tips for expectant mothers:
- Limit salt intake.
- Consume less water than usual, not exceeding 1 liter.
- When lying down, tilt to the left to avoid the uterus pressing on the renal vessels.
- Use blood pressure and diuretic medications as directed and prescribed by the doctor.
Prevention
Since the specific and accurate cause has not been identified, there is currently no most effective preventive measure. Pregnant individuals should undergo thorough prenatal examinations to timely detect any abnormalities during pregnancy. If anything unusual is observed, prompt check-ups and examinations are necessary for timely intervention and treatment.