Which condition is associated with water retention and hypertension during pregnancy and can lead to seizures during birth?

• A. Placenta previa
• B. Preeclampsia
• C. Abruptio placentae
• D. Cystitis

Answer: (B)

Preeclampsia is the condition described. It develops after about 20 weeks of pregnancy and is marked by new-onset hypertension and edema (water retention), often with protein in the urine. When preeclampsia worsens, it can progress to seizures during pregnancy or delivery, a state called eclampsia, making it a medical emergency.

This combination of swelling, high blood pressure, and potential seizures explains why it’s the correct match for the question. Placenta previa and abruptio placentae involve vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain rather than edema with hypertension and seizure risk, while a bladder infection (cystitis) presents with urinary symptoms and fever rather than the pregnancy-specific triad described.

In the field, recognize signs like sudden facial or hand swelling, headaches, visual changes, and elevated blood pressure in a pregnant patient, and prioritize rapid transport with appropriate monitoring. Keep the patient on the left side to improve blood flow and be prepared to manage seizures if they occur, coordinating closely with obstetric care on arrival.