Dr. Marvelous Idemudia of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Clinic, Abuja, has warned pregnant women against ignoring early signs of eclampsia, a life-threatening pregnancy complication.
Eclampsia is a severe condition characterised by sudden, uncontrollable seizures (convulsions) or coma in a pregnant woman or one who has recently given birth.
In an interview with reporters on Friday in Abuja, Idemudia identified leg swelling, severe headaches, and unusual weight gain as possible warning signs of the condition.
She urged expectant mothers to seek immediate medical attention if such symptoms occur, explaining that eclampsia is a severe pregnancy complication in which seizures develop after 20 weeks of pregnancy or shortly after childbirth.
According to her, eclampsia is usually preceded by preeclampsia, a pregnancy-related disorder marked by high blood pressure and organ dysfunction. It is commonly associated with hypertension and the presence of protein in the urine.
She emphasised that regular antenatal care and medical monitoring during pregnancy are essential for early detection and management of the condition.
“Symptoms such as severe edema, persistent vomiting, convulsions, and rising blood pressure should never be dismissed as normal pregnancy experiences.
“When a pregnant woman notices swelling in her legs, she should immediately report to the hospital,” she said.
Idemudia noted that although eclampsia might not be completely preventable, early detection and proper antenatal care can help manage the condition and reduce complications.
She advised pregnant women to register for antenatal care as soon as pregnancy is confirmed, noting that regular check-ups enable healthcare providers to detect rising blood pressure early.
“If it is detected early, it can be managed better. But if it is detected late, there will be a delay in management,” she said.
The medical doctor also cautioned against harmful traditional practices during convulsions, such as forcing objects into the patient’s mouth or physically restraining the individual.
“People should avoid traditional practices such as forcing spoons into the patient’s mouth or hitting the person during convulsions,” she said.
In emergency situations before medical help arrives, she advised that the patient should be turned on their side to prevent choking and then taken promptly to a hospital.
“Eclampsia remains one of the major complications associated with pregnancy and poses serious risks to both mother and child if not treated promptly,” she said.
