Mom of 18 kids gives premature birth due to high blood pressure

By Sheilah Downey

19th Duggar child delivered via C-section

Michelle Duggar, of TLC's 18 Kids and Counting, gave birth to her 19th baby in an emergency C-section. Duggar was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia, a rare condition that affects high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Preeclampsia, also called toxemia, is marked by high blood pressure as well as a high level of protein in the urine, according to WebMD.

Symptoms of preeclampsia include swelling in the feet, legs, and hands. Preeclampsia usually appears during the first pregnancy and occurs in 5 to 10 percent of pregnancies.

It is also known to occur in the latter part of the second or in the third trimesters, although it can occur earlier.

In Michelle Duggar's case the pre-eclampsia occurred in the third trimester, and the baby, who was due in March, was born Dec. 10, almost  three months early.

What Causes Preeclampsia?

Researchers do not know the exact cause of preeclampsia, although poor nutrition, high body fat, or insufficient blood flow to the uterus are listed as possible causes.

Who Is at Risk for Preeclampsia?

What is unusual about the Duggar case is that preeclampsia is most often seen in first-time pregnancies. It is also seen in pregnant teens and women over 40. Other risk factors include:

1. A history of high blood pressure before becoming pregnant.
2. Previous history of preeclampsia.
3. A family history of preeclampsia in mother or sisters.
4. Obesity prior to pregnancy.
5. Carrying more than one baby.
6. History of diabetes, kidney disease, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis.


What are the Signs of Preeclampsia?

In addition to swelling, protein in the urine, and high blood pressure, symptoms of preeclampsia can include rapid weight gain, abdominal pain ad severe headaches.

Other symptoms can include:

1. A sudden change in reflexes
2. Reduced output of urine or no urine
3. Dizziness
4. Excessive vomiting and nausea

Affects of Preeclampsia on the Fetus

Preeclampsia can prevent the placenta from receiving enough blood, which can cause the baby to be born very small. It is also one of the leading causes of premature births and the difficulties that can accompany them, including learning disabilities, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and hearing and vision problems.

Source: WebMD