In simple words: Eclampsia is a serious condition that can occur during pregnancy, characterized by seizures (convulsions) due to high blood pressure. It typically occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy but can also happen after delivery. This condition typically follows preeclampsia (high blood pressure and protein in the urine during pregnancy).

Eclampsia is a severe complication of preeclampsia, characterized by the development of seizures or coma in a pregnant woman with high blood pressure and proteinuria. It typically occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy but can also happen during the postpartum period. Eclampsia can lead to serious complications for both mother and baby, including stroke, organ damage, and premature birth. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent life-threatening outcomes.

Example 1: A pregnant woman in her third trimester presents with high blood pressure, proteinuria, and sudden onset of seizures. She is diagnosed with eclampsia., A woman who recently delivered experiences a seizure and is found to have high blood pressure and proteinuria. She is diagnosed with postpartum eclampsia., A pregnant woman with preeclampsia develops severe headaches, visual disturbances, and altered mental status, followed by a seizure. She is diagnosed with eclampsia.

Documentation should include details about the onset and duration of seizures, blood pressure readings, presence of proteinuria, other symptoms (e.g., headache, visual disturbances), and fetal monitoring data.

** Codes from Chapter 15 (Pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium) are used only on maternal records, not newborn records.