Get to know the leading cause of maternal mortality...

H (hemolysis, which is the breaking down of red blood cells)
EL (elevated liver enzymes)
LP (low platelet count
                                                                                                                                    DID YOU KNOW…              
HELLP Syndrome is a rare pregnancy complication (occuring in 0.1% to 1% of pregnancies) and type of preeclampsia. It usually occurs during the third trimester of pregnancy. But it also can develop in the first week after childbirth (postpartum preeclampsia). 

What's the difference between HELLP Syndrome and Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia leads to high blood pressure (hypertension) and proteinuria (high levels of protein in the urine).

HELLP Syndrome is a separate disorder from preeclampsia as patients may not have high blood pressure or proteinuria. It can lead to serious blood and liver problems.    

      
KNOW THE SYMPTOMS:

*Epigastric (abdominal) or substernal (chest) pain, including abdominal or chest tenderness and upper right side pain (from liver distention).
*Nausea, vomiting, or indigestion with pain after eating.
*Headache that won't go away, even after taking medication such as acetaminophen.
*Shoulder pain or pain when breathing deeply.
*Bleeding
*Changes in vision including blurred vision, seeing double, or flashing lights or auras.
*Swelling, especially of the face or hands.
*Shortness of breath, difficult breathing, or gasping for air.                
*High blood pressure
*Protein in the urine.
*Abnormalities in laboratory blood work (increased liver enzymes, decreased platelets, and the presence of hemolysis).