Viewers of Hulu's Emmy-, Golden Globe- and Actor-award nominated show "Paradise" were shocked and saddened by the death of Shailene Woodley's character, Annie, on Monday night. Woodley's character, a former medical student pregnant with her first child, suffered from preeclampsia, new-onset high blood pressure that happens during pregnancy. Throughout her pregnancy, viewers watched as Annie regularly took her blood pressure. Her daily blood pressure readings were high, suggesting she may have preeclampsia. In last night's episode, Annie and Xaiver, played by Sterling K. Brown, travel to Atlanta to find Xaiver's wife when Annie goes into labor. Although the baby is successfully delivered, Annie dies shortly after giving birth.
According to the CDC, preeclampsia is estimated to occur in 5 to 7% of all pregnancies. While most women with preeclampsia deliver healthy babies and fully recover, preeclampsia can be life-threatening to the mother and baby. The American Heart Association explains that preeclampsia is new-onset high blood pressure that happens during pregnancy, usually starting after the 20th week. It is defined as a systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher and/or a diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher on two recordings at least four hours apart. Other signs include high levels of protein in the urine or other signs of organ damage.
Some women don't notice any symptoms, but when they do, symptoms may include headaches with unknown cause that don't go away with medication, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, nausea and/or vomiting, shortness of breath, and rapid swelling, especially of the feet. Currently, there is no test used regularly in the U.S. to predict preeclampsia, and the mother and baby are monitored at regular prenatal visits. There is no proven way to prevent gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, but women at risk can lower their risk by taking low-dose aspirin during pregnancy. Women should ask their health care professional if aspirin is appropriate.
For a healthy pregnancy, women should get early and regular medical care, check their blood pressure at home if told to, eat a heart-healthy diet, and get regular physical activity. Women with preeclampsia are more likely to develop high blood pressure, neurologic problems, and diabetes later in life. It also increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, research shows.
Preeclampsia treatment depends on the overall health of the mother and the condition's progress. Medications including beta-blockers (such as labetalol) or calcium channel blockers (nifedipine) are often used to lower blood pressure. To prevent severe health issues for the mother, the baby may need to be born early. If the mother has severe symptoms and is at least 34 weeks pregnant, experts recommend delivering the baby as soon as it is safe. If the pregnancy is less than 34 weeks, medication might be given to help the baby grow and be better prepared for an early delivery. If the mother's condition is not severe, delivery at 37 weeks is recommended. Preeclampsia signs and symptoms may continue after delivery but usually disappear within six weeks.
For more information and resources to support women's heart health at every age, visit GoRedforWomen.org or the American Heart Association at heart.org. The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities.
