Are there long-term health risks associated with preeclampsia?
As noted above, research shows a link to heart disease. In addition, women who develop severe preeclampsia may be at higher risk for high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, diabetes, and impaired kidney function. Fortunately, women can begin to take steps early in life to reduce their risk of heart disease, such as incorporating at least 30 minutes of physical activity into the daily routine, eating a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking and avoiding second-hand smoke, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol intake to one drink per day. Women who have experienced severe preeclampsia should regularly visit a primary care provider, internist, or cardiologist familiar with preeclampsia. Also, women who developed preeclampsia and plan to have another child should consider having a preconceptual visit with an ob/gyn physician, certified nurse midwife, or maternal fetal medicine specialist. The provider will screen you for hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, diet concerns
