Headache Attributed to Preeclampsia or Eclampsia
摘要
Headaches are a common symptom experienced by pregnant women, but when associated with conditions such as preeclampsia and eclampsia, they can indicate serious health risks. Preeclampsia typically occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, such as the kidneys or liver. One of the hallmark symptoms of preeclampsia is a severe headache, which can be persistent and resistant to typical pain relief methods. Such headaches may signal an escalation in the condition, potentially leading to eclampsia, a more severe state characterized by seizures. We present the case of patient MCG, a 25-year-old woman with a history of migraine with aura since childhood, who experienced significant worsening during her second pregnancy. Late in gestation, she developed foot edema, persistent nuchal headache without aura, and hypertension (170/110 mmHg). She was diagnosed with late-onset gestational and immediate postpartum preeclampsia, treated with methyldopa and candesartan, showing improvement and recovery within 1 month. Her migraine, controlled with nerve blocks, required continuous neurological monitoring. The consequences of these conditions can be dire, not only affecting the health of the mother but also having significant implications for the fetus. If untreated, preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia, resulting in seizures, which can lead to complications such as stroke, organ failure, and even maternal and fetal mortality. Additionally, both preeclampsia and eclampsia can bring about long-term health issues, including cardiovascular problems for the mother. Timely recognition and management of headaches in the context of these hypertensive disorders are crucial. Pregnant women presenting with severe headaches should undergo thorough evaluation and monitoring to mitigate risks and ensure both maternal and fetal well-being. Collaborative care strategies are essential in addressing these complications, aiming to improve outcomes for both mothers and their infants.