What is a characteristic symptom of preeclampsia?

A characteristic symptom of preeclampsia is high blood pressure, which is typically defined as a reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that can lead to serious health issues for both the mother and the fetus if not properly managed. It is also often associated with elevated levels of protein in the urine (proteinuria), but the significant marker is the high blood pressure.

This condition usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy and may present with other symptoms like swelling and headaches, but high blood pressure is the most critical indicator that healthcare providers monitor to diagnose and manage preeclampsia effectively.

In contrast, low blood sugar is usually not associated with preeclampsia. Severe abdominal pain could indicate a range of different issues, but it is not a specific symptom of preeclampsia. Excessive skin pigmentation may occur during pregnancy due to hormonal changes but is not related to preeclampsia. Understanding these discrepancies can help in the timely identification and intervention for preeclampsia.