A recent article in Philadelphia Inquirer noted incidences of preeclampsia are on the rise. While preeclampsia is still rare, it is a well-known condition that is now affecting 5-7 percent of pregnancies.

Our office is currently representing a family in a case involving the loss of a baby and serious injuries suffered by the mother during the final stages of labor due to preeclampsia and pregnancy complications.

At the Law Office of Alvin F. de Levie & Associates, our team of experienced personal injury attorneys has a history of representing victims who have suffered serious injuries caused by of medical negligence, including failure to diagnose and monitor mothers for preeclampsia, throughout the Commonwealth. If you, your child or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury as a result of medical negligence during labor and delivery, or other forms of medical malpractice, please call us, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at (844) 777-2529.   We practice throughout Central and Western Pennsylvania and, with offices in State College, Bellefonte, Lock Haven and Philadelphia, we are always available to meet with you in person.

According to Medline.gov, preeclampsia occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy. Symptoms include high blood pressure, signs of liver and kidney damage, headaches, protein in the urine and blurred vision. Failure to recognize and treat preeclampsia can cause serious complications for both the mother and unborn child:

• For the Mother: Pregnant women suffering from preeclampsia can suffer liver and renal failure, cardiovascular problems, and, in severe cases, seizures.
• For the Unborn Child: Preeclampsia can keep the placenta from receiving enough blood. This causes the unborn child to get less oxygen and food. This can cause low birth rates, premature birth, learning disorders, epilepsy, blindness, cerebral palsy and deafness.

While the cause of preeclampsia is not known, the Inquirer article noted several risk factors, including:

• Health issues such as diabetes and kidney disease
• Lupus and other autoimmune diseases
• Carrying twins or triplets
• A personal or family history of preeclampsia
• Obesity
• Pregnancy after 35 years of age.

In most cases, early diagnosis and monitoring are key to effective treatment and the prevention of pregnancy complications.

Again, if you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury as a result of medical negligence during childbirth, please call us, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at (844) 777-2529.   We practice throughout Central and Western Pennsylvania and, with offices in State College, Bellefonte, Lock Haven and Philadelphia, we are always available to meet with you in person.