What is an urgent reason for assessing a headache in late pregnancy?

Assessing a headache in late pregnancy is critical because it could be a sign of pre-eclampsia, a serious condition that can affect both the mother and the baby. Pre-eclampsia typically arises after the 20th week of pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the kidneys. A headache in this context, particularly if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling or visual changes, may indicate that the mother is at risk for developing this condition.

Identifying and managing pre-eclampsia early is vital because it can lead to severe complications if left untreated, including eclampsia, which may cause seizures, or other health concerns for both the mother and child. Therefore, an urgent assessment of a headache in late pregnancy is warranted to ensure any potential underlying issues are addressed promptly.