What conditions may indicate preeclampsia during pregnancy?

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can develop during pregnancy, typically characterized by the onset of high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, most often the liver and kidneys. Among the common indicators, excessive weight gain and swelling, particularly in the hands and face, are noteworthy symptoms.

Weight gain can be particularly pronounced due to fluid retention, which occurs when the body's blood vessels become leaky under the influence of high blood pressure. This swelling, or edema, is one of the hallmark signs that healthcare professionals monitor closely when assessing for preeclampsia.

The other symptoms listed—low blood pressure, nausea, fatigue, increased appetite, and mood swings—are either not directly associated with preeclampsia or can be attributed to normal discomforts of pregnancy that do not necessarily signal a complication. Thus, the identification of excessive weight gain and swelling serves as a crucial component in recognizing preeclampsia, making it the correct choice in this context.