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Help with HELLP Syndrome

Understanding this Mysterious Complication

By Gina Roberts-Grey

Although women who have a history of preeclampsia are thought to be at a slightly higher risk for developing HELLP, medical experts agree women do not need to have a history of preeclampsia, and otherwise completely healthy individuals can develop HELLP.

Dr. John T. Repke, professor and chairman of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Penn State College of Medicine, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, explains that HELLP indicators may be tough to spot. "Symptoms can be very subtle," says Dr. Repke, echoing what Berndt and many other women who've had HELLP have experienced. "Someone might not feel quite right or HELLP may present as the flu."

A combination of symptoms such as mild to moderate elevation of blood pressure, right upper quadrant pain, excessive weight gain and fluid retention or bruising easily are reasons to consult your physician. "An otherwise normally healthy individual might not have any history of HELLP or preeclampsia and not realize they are experiencing some of its symptoms," says Dr. Repke.

Encouraging expectant women to temper alertness for HELLP with an empowering atitude to discuss any concerns with their health care providers, Dr. Repke urges mothers-to-be to pay attention to their bodies and how they are feeling. "Discussing any concerns with a doctor can ease your mind as well as diagnose a complication," he says.

Want to see more?

• Staying Strong: Exercise during a High-risk Pregnancy
• Managing Preeclampsia
• Surviving the Syndrome: Rare Condition, HELLP, Requires Fast Treatment
• Talk about it!

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