What symptom is commonly associated with preeclampsia?

High blood pressure is a key symptom associated with preeclampsia, which is a pregnancy complication characterized by the onset of hypertension and often accompanied by protein in the urine. This condition typically arises after the 20th week of pregnancy and is primarily diagnosed when a woman has elevated blood pressure readings, usually defined as 140/90 mm Hg or higher.

Preeclampsia can lead to more serious complications if left untreated, including eclampsia, which involves seizures, and it can affect the mother's organs as well as the fetus. Recognizing high blood pressure as a symptom is crucial for timely intervention to manage the condition and mitigate risks for both the mother and baby.

The other symptoms mentioned, such as intense abdominal pain and sudden onset of chest pain, can manifest in various medical conditions but are not defining features of preeclampsia. Vaginal bleeding is also not characteristic of preeclampsia, although it may occur in conjunction with other pregnancy complications. Thus, the presence of high blood pressure is the hallmark symptom that indicates the potential onset of preeclampsia.