The symptoms of postpartum preeclampsia

The symptoms of postpartum preeclampsiaPostpartum is a flurry of highs and lows, from restless nights to some of the sweetest moments of parenting. But it's also a risky time for new moms, and serious conditions can arise without much warning, requiring vigilance from parents themselves and their doctors. Postpartum preeclampsia is an example of one such condition, involving high blood pressure in the first few weeks to months after giving birth, posing a potentially serious threat to postpartum moms.

With some education and awareness, moms and their support teams can watch for symptoms of preeclampsia, and ensure they get help quickly if needed.

Preeclampsia is not just a condition of pregnancy. It can develop up to six weeks after delivery and be fatal, says the Preeclampsia Foundation. According to Harvard Health, symptoms of preeclampsia may include mild swelling of hands or feet as well as symptoms like headache, visual changes, nausea and abdominal pain and trouble breathing. Severe preeclampsia can cause seizures and increase the risk of stroke. Most cases are diagnosed in the last weeks of pregnancy, and symptoms improve after delivery. But sometimes it gets worse or is first diagnosed after pregnancy.

In those cases, it's called postpartum preeclampsia. "What makes it notable is that it can occur even after a completely uncomplicated pregnancy. It most often appears within the first two weeks postpartum, though it can occur up to six weeks out, and because it is unexpected at that stage, it is often missed," says Dr. Lucky Sekhon, double board-certified OB-GYN and reproductive endocrinologist and infertility (REI) specialist at RMA of New York, and Mira Medical Advisor.

These are the symptoms to watch for and report promptly to your doctor, according to Sekhon:

Visual changes like seeing spots or blurriness

These symptoms warrant immediate medical attention, Sekhon says. Do not use a "wait and see" approach.

In case you missed it: Here's why preeclampsia remains one of the most worrisome pregnancy-related health conditions

Even after a perfectly healthy and uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery, moms should watch for this condition. They can monitor their blood pressure at home, and also make sure to attend any scheduled postpartum visits. Report blood pressure readings over 140/90 mmHg to your physician promptly. You can consider purchasing an at home monitor to keep track and notice anything out of the ordinary for you. Also know if you are at a greater risk.

"Women who had preeclampsia or gestational hypertension during pregnancy are at higher risk, though it can also occur in first-time mothers with no prior history. Additional risk factors include chronic hypertension, obesity, being over 40, carrying multiples and a family history of preeclampsia," Sekhon says.

With awareness and proper monitoring, moms can keep an eye on this potentially serious condition, to ensure the healthiest postpartum period possible.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The symptoms of postpartum preeclampsia