preeclampsia or infection?

[maimy88]

Today I am 20 weeks along and I had my first consultant appointment. They checked my blood pressure and urine. My urine had protein ++, leucocytes +++ and blood + and my BP was 140/94 (up until now has been 120/70ish every time). They said it could be a sign that I have preeclampsia or that I could have an infection so would be sending off my urine to be tested.

Going into the appointment I had a list of how I had been feeling recently. Headaches over the last week not settled with paracetemol, abdominal pain like intense period cramping, feeling generally rubbish the last week or so, nausea and vomitting kicking off again (was bad up until 16 weeks) and heartburn/acid reflux.

I'm now really worried because I've Dr Googled the symptoms since I got home (bad idea I know) and they seem to fit with preeclampsia. I have to wait at least a week for the results of my urine sample and they didn't say what would happen next if the sample was normal. I've texted my midwife and I'm just waiting to hear back from her.

I guess I just wanted to know if anyone had any advice or experience of something like this so early on in pregnancy. Just want to settle myself because no doubt my BP will be high now because I'm working myself up especially if it could be an infection and not preeclampsia at all!!

Leukocytes do suggest infection. As does blood in the urine. Headache in the second trimester isn't that unusual but the blood pressure being high is. However, you could have an infection and hypertension without it being pre eclampsia. It's easier said than done but do try to relax and not assume the worst. Pre eclampsia so early is unusual so fingers crossed for you!

Thanks Liz3891 now I've calmed down a bit it does seem so much more likely that I have an infection. I'd rather they have just tested for the infection without saying about pre eclampsia then crossing that bridge if it came to it. It's stressed me out so much it being offered up as a possibility (mum nearly died as a result of pre eclampsia/eclampsia) but I guess they have to tell you everything.