What is the initial clinical manifestation of Eclampsia during pregnancy?

Eclampsia is characterized primarily by the occurrence of convulsions in a pregnant individual. These seizures occur in patients who have developed preeclampsia, which is marked by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, typically after the 20th week of gestation. The convulsions are a hallmark of eclampsia and represent a serious escalation of preeclampsia, indicating that the condition has progressed to a more severe state.

The onset of convulsions can lead to significant complications, both for the mother and the fetus, and requires immediate medical intervention. Therefore, identifying convulsions as the initial clinical manifestation of eclampsia is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of the condition, which can dramatically affect outcomes for both the mother and the baby.