PREECLAMPSIA - HELLP SYNDROME: A SERIOUS PREGNANCY COMPLICATION

HELLP syndrome is a potentially life - threatening disorder that’s usually associated with preeclampsia. HELLP syndrome is a disorder of the liver and blood, and can often be difficult to initially diagnose. The name HELLP syndrome is an acronym of three major abnormalities seen on the initial lab analysis. These include:

H: Hemolysis
EL: eEevated liver enzymes
LP: Low platelet count

HELLP syndrome is a severe form of preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication that causes high blood pressure. Approximately 10–20 percent of women who develop preeclampsia will also develop HELLP syndrome.

Symptoms of HELLP syndrome:
The symptoms of HELLP syndrome may vary from person-to-person, but the most common ones include:

- Feeling generally unwell
- Fatigued stomach pain, especially in your upper abdomen
- Nausea, vomiting
- Headache

You may also experience:

- Swelling, especially in the hands or face
- Excessive and sudden weight gain
- Blurry vision, loss of vision, or other changes in vision
- Shoulder pain
- Pain when breathing deeply

What are the risk factors for HELLP syndrome?
The cause of HELLP syndrome is unknown, but there are certain factors that may increase your risk of developing it. Preeclampsia is the greatest risk factor. Other risk factors for HELLP include:

- Being over age 30
- Being African - American
- Being obese 
- Having previous pregnancies
- Having diabetes or kidney disease
- Having high blood pressure
- History of preeclampsia

How is HELLP syndrome diagnosed?
Your doctor will perform a physical exam and order various tests if HELLP syndrome is suspected.

- Blood tests to evaluate platelet levels, liver enzymes, and red blood cell count
- Urine test to check for abnormal proteins
- MRI to determine whether there’s bleeding in the liver

HELLP syndrome isn’t preventable in most pregnant women, because the cause of the condition isn’t known. However, people can lower their risk for HELLP syndrome by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It’s also important to contact your doctor immediately if you’re experiencing symptoms of HELLP syndrome. Early detection and treatment can help lower the risk of complications.

At American International Hospital (AIH), doctors and nutritionists will keep track and give specific advice to expecting mothers so that they have the most suitable plan to take care of their own health and their babies’ health.

As the first of its kind here in Vietnam, American standard versatile rooms equipped with 4 in 1 facilities (LDRP) is being offered by American International Hospital (AIH). These rooms designed for the whole birthing process including Labor, Delivery (natural), Recovery and Postpartum will make mothers feel like home.

Specially, our NICU is equipped with modern equipment, with the cooperation of a comprehensive team of specialists that includes neonatologists, neonatal nurses, physiotherapists, pediatric nutritionist, timely support for babies, ensure safety and best care for babies right after birth.

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