First Rivers Hospital Ltd

Preeclampsia Day | First Rivers Hospital

Today, we pause to talk about a silent threat that affects 1 in 20 pregnancies: Preeclampsia.

It often starts quietly. A little swelling. A slight headache. Elevated blood pressure that wasn’t there before. For some mothers, it moves fast; turning joy into fear in a matter of hours.

What is preeclampsia?
It’s a pregnancy complication marked by elevated blood pressure + signs of damage to organs, usually the liver and kidneys. It typically appears after 20 weeks, but it can happen earlier, during labor, or even up to 6 weeks after delivery.

Warning signs you should NEVER ignore:
1. Severe headache that won’t go away
2. Vision changes - blurry, flashing lights, spots
3. Sudden swelling of face, hands, or feet
4. Upper belly pain under the ribs on the right side
5. Shortness of breath
6. Elevated blood pressure - 140/90 or higher

If you feel any of these, call your doctor or come to the hospital immediately. Waiting can be dangerous.

Why it matters to us
At First Rivers Hospital, we’ve seen brave mothers fight through this. We’ve also seen the heartbreak when it’s caught too late. Preeclampsia doesn’t care if it’s your first baby or your fourth. It doesn’t matter if you felt fine yesterday.

The only cure is delivery. But with early detection and close monitoring, most mothers and babies come through safely.

To every mother, sister, friend:
Your body is speaking. Listen to it. Come for your antenatal visits. Check your blood pressure. Ask questions, even the ones you think are “small.” There’s no such thing as a small concern when it comes to your life and your baby’s.

To families:
If the pregnant woman in your life is complaining of headache, swelling, or “something just feels off,” take it seriously. Walk with her to the hospital. Your voice might save two lives.

This Preeclampsia Day, let’s break the silence. Let’s check in. Let’s save mothers.

First Rivers Hospital is here for you 24/7.

Breathe easy, live fully!
This year's theme: "Breath is Life - Act Early" You can't see it, but every breath matters.
Asthma affects millions, but with the right steps it doesn't have to hold you back. Here's how we keep lungs happy:
1. Know your triggers; "dust, smoke, cold air, stress".
Avoiding them cuts attacks.
2. Use your inhaler as prescribed, not just when you're struggling. It's control, not just rescue.
3. Speak up early shortness of breath isn't "just stress". See a doctor before it gets worse.
Clean air = clear lungs = more lives lived fully.
Breathe in. Breathe out. Speak up.