How to Prevent Hellp Syndrome

HELLP syndrome is a condition that affects a small percentage of women every year, either during their pregnancy or after giving birth. This modified form of pre-eclampsia causes the women to feel nauseous, tired and generally weak. Medical practitioners generally agree that there is no way to prevent the disease from occurring. However there are things you can do to lessen the severity of the condition, mainly by paying attention to your own body and looking for symptoms of the condition early on.

Instructions

1. Watch for symptoms of HELLP Syndrome. Pain in the stomach, especially in the upper right side area, persistent feelings of sleepiness and exhaustion, nausea and bad migraines are all symptoms of the condition. Some people may also have bleeding gums. Any of these symptoms early on can signify that you have HELLP.

2. Tell your doctor about any symptoms you may be experiencing. Your doctor knows only what you tell him and, by withholding any information, you may be harming yourself. The only way your doctor can test for HELLP is if you let him know that you’ve experienced some of the symptoms.

3. Ask your doctor to be tested for HELLP Syndrome. Since no one knows exactly why the problem develops, no one knows how to prevent it. Getting tested for the condition can help you handle the problem and find ways to cope with the symptoms and side effects.

4. Keep an eye on your body if you’ve had HELLP Syndrome previously. Women who experienced HELLP in a previous pregnancy have a higher risk of developing the condition again. This time you can watch your body and look for the symptoms so your doctor can start treatment immediately.

5. Have regular check-ups throughout your pregnancy. Talking to your doctor is one thing but having regular check-ups is something completely different. You should stick to the routine your doctor established and have check-ups done as needed. Try not to skip any appointments unless it’s absolutely necessary. Your doctor can look for signs of the condition before you experience any of the symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Women who are older than 35, and those under the age of 20, are more likely to develop HELLP than other pregnant woman. Other risk factors include high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia and women who are having their first pregnancy. If you experience any symptoms, and meet the risk factors, you should discuss the condition with your doctor.

• There is no way to prevent HELLP syndrome. Some women develop the condition, while others with the same history, and lifestyle, do not. The only thing you can do is look for symptoms early on and treat the disease.