Health Tips for July 21

Health Tip: Risk Factors for Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a condition in pregnancy, characterized by a sudden, significant rise in blood pressure and swelling of the hands and feet.

It can be dangerous for both the fetus and the mother.

Here is a list of common risk factors, courtesy of the Preeclampsia Foundation:

* A first pregnancy.
* Family or personal history of preeclampsia, chronic high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disease.
* Obesity.
* Multiple birth pregnancies.
* Age younger than 18 or greater than 40.
* Other conditions including polycystic ovarian syndrome, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis or multiple sclerosis.

Health Tip: Hernias in Children

A hernia is a bulge caused by tissue that protrudes through a weak spot in a muscle wall, where it doesn't belong. While hernias are more common in adults, they can also occur in children.

Here are signs that your child may have a hernia, courtesy of the Nemours Foundation:

* A bulge that appears when your child is straining, coughing, crying or standing, and disappears when sleeping or resting.
* A bulge that is always visible.
* Swelling or discoloration of the groin or abdomen.
* A bulge in the groin that is swollen, red, inflamed and causing your child extreme pain.
* A combination of symptoms including irritability, pain, constipation, fever or vomiting.