Which symptom is typical of preeclampsia?

• A. Headache and visual changes
• B. Shortness of breath with edema
• C. Nausea only
• D. Abdominal pain unrelated to pregnancy

Answer: (A)

Headache and visual changes arise from cerebral involvement due to hypertension and vasospasm in preeclampsia, which after 20 weeks’ gestation is defined by new-onset high blood pressure with signs of end-organ dysfunction. The brain is particularly affected, so patients frequently report headaches and visual disturbances like blurred vision or seeing spots. While edema and shortness of breath can occur in pregnancy, they are not as specific to preeclampsia and can be seen with other conditions or normal late-pregnancy changes. Nausea alone is more typical of early pregnancy, and abdominal pain not related to pregnancy isn’t a characteristic feature. Thus, headaches with visual changes best reflect the CNS involvement that makes preeclampsia a concern.