HELLP syndrome is a disorder of the liver and blood that can occur during pregnancy. Usually, this syndrome occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy. If not treated properly, this syndrome can have a fatal impact on pregnant women and their unborn babies.
HELLP syndrome stands for hemolysis (H), which is the destruction of red blood cells, elevated liver enzymes (EL), which is an increase in the production of liver enzymes due to disturbances in liver cells, and low platelet (LP), i.e. the number of platelets or platelets that are below normal limits, thus interfering with the blood clotting process.
Factors Causing HELLP Sindrom Syndrome
Until now, the exact cause of HELLP syndrome is not known. However, there are certain factors that can increase the risk of developing this syndrome.
One of the most common factors is preeclampsia. This condition is characterized by high blood pressure and usually occurs during the last trimester of pregnancy. However, in some cases, preeclampsia can also be experienced in early pregnancy or even after delivery.
Of course, not all pregnant women with preeclampsia will experience HELLP syndrome. There are several other risk factors that can also increase the likelihood of this syndrome occurring, including:
- Over 35 years old
- Obesity
- Suffering from diabetes or kidney disease
- Have high blood pressure
- Have a history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy
- Have given birth more than 2 times
In addition, pregnant women are also at a higher risk of developing HELLP syndrome if they have experienced this in a previous pregnancy. One study showed that the risk of recurrence in hypertensive disorders, preeclampsia, and HELLP syndrome in a subsequent pregnancy was approximately 18%.
Symptoms of HELLP Sindrom Syndrome
Symptoms of HELLP syndrome vary from person to person and are not very specific, so it is sometimes difficult to diagnose. Symptoms that can arise include feeling tired, severe headache, heartburn or upper right abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting during pregnancy.
Some of the other symptoms of HELLP syndrome include swelling (especially in the face), excessive and sudden weight gain, spontaneous and non-stop bleeding, seizures, impaired vision, and pain when breathing. These symptoms can also be part of another pregnancy problem.
If you experience symptoms of HELLP syndrome, it is important to immediately consult a doctor for proper examination and treatment.
HELLP Sindrom Syndrome Treatment
Generally, the doctor will perform a physical exam, urine tests to look for protein leaks, and blood tests to evaluate liver function and the number of red blood cells and platelets. In addition, it may be necessary to do an abdominal MRI to see the condition of the liver more clearly.
If the lab results indicate the presence of HELLP syndrome, it is likely that the baby must be delivered early to prevent serious complications that can endanger the condition of both mother and baby.
However, if your HELLP syndrome symptoms are mild or if you are less than 34 weeks pregnant, the medical steps your doctor may take before deciding to deliver your baby prematurely include:
- bed rest (bed rest) and hospital treatment, so that you and your fetus' health can be monitored properly
- Perform blood transfusions, to treat anemia and low platelets
- Giving corticosteroids, to accelerate the maturation of the baby's lungs
- Administration of magnesium sulfate, to prevent eclampsia or seizures
- Administration of blood pressure lowering drugs.
- Monitoring and evaluating the possibility of fetal distress
During treatment, the doctor will monitor your red blood cell, platelet, and liver enzyme levels, as well as the baby's condition. The doctor will also recommend several tests to evaluate the baby's movements, the baby's heart rate, and uterine contractions, as well as blood flow to the uterus.
In fact, the best way you can prevent HELLP syndrome is to take care of yourself before and during pregnancy. In addition, pay attention to the early symptoms of this syndrome so that you can get an early examination and treatment.
In addition, consult your doctor regularly during pregnancy and tell your doctor if you have a high-risk pregnancy or have a history of pregnancy complications such as HELLP syndrome and preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy.
