Eclampsia is the occurence of seizures (convulsions) in a pregnant woman. The seizures are unrelated to brain conditions and usually happen after the 20th week of pregnancy.

See also: Preeclampsia

The cause of eclampsia is not well understood. Researchers believe a person's genes, diet, blood vessels, and neurological factors may play a role. However, no theories have yet been proven.

Eclampsia follows preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy marked by high blood pressure, weight gain, and protein in the urine.

It is difficult to predict which women with preeclampsia will go on to have seizures. Women with very high blood pressure, headaches, vision changes, or abnormal blood tests have severe preeclampsia and are at high risk for seizures.

The rate of eclampsia is approximately 1 out of 2000 to 3000 pregnancies. The following increase a woman's chance for preeclampsia: 

• First pregnancies
• Teenage pregnancies
• Being 35 or older
• Being African-American
• Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)
• History of diabetes, hypertension, or renal (kidney) disease

• Seizures
• Severe agitation
• Unconsciousness
• Muscle aches and pains 

Symtoms of preeclampsia include swelling of hands and face, gaining more than 2 pounds per week, headache, vision problems, and stomach pain. See preeclampsia.

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and rule out other possible causes of seizures. Blood pressure and breathing rate will be checked and monitored. Blood tests may be performed to check:

• Uric acid
• Creatinine (to evaluate kidney function)
• Liver function
• Platelet count