How will I know if I develop preeclampsia?

In addition to high blood pressure, other signs and symptoms of preeclampsia include:

• Extra protein in the urine or other signs of kidney problems
• Severe headaches
• Changes in vision, including temporary loss of vision, blurred vision or being sensitive to light
• Upper stomach pain, usually under the ribs on the right side
• Nausea or vomiting
• Decreased levels of platelets in the blood
• Impaired liver function
• Shortness of breath, caused by fluid in the lungs

Sudden weight gain and swelling — particularly in the face and hands — often occurs with preeclampsia. The swelling associated with preeclampsia is more severe than the typical swelling that happens during pregnancy.