Causes
The causes of preeclampsia remain unknown. There are a few theories, and certain characteristics that are more common in sufferers. However, the cause is not yet known.
We do know some risk factors. For example, preeclampsia tends to run in families, just like typical chronic high blood pressure. It's also more common in racial groups that are especially susceptible to high blood pressure, notably black people. This might suggest that people who are genetically susceptible to high blood pressure are more likely to develop preeclampsia.
The known risk factors for preeclampsia are:
- being over the age of 40, or under 20
- first pregnancy
- preeclampsia in previous pregnancies
- multiple fetuses (e.g., twins, triplets)
- Black or Native American ancestry
- family history of preeclampsia
- diabetes
- pre-existing high blood pressure or kidney disease
- being overweight before pregnancy