What condition is characterized by increased hypertension, headaches, albuminuria, and lower extremity edema during pregnancy?

Preeclampsia is a condition that typically arises during pregnancy and is marked by several specific symptoms. It is characterized by increased blood pressure (hypertension) and the presence of protein in the urine (albuminuria), which reflects the kidneys' response to the altered blood flow and pressure. Headaches are a common complaint among those experiencing preeclampsia and can vary in intensity, sometimes being quite severe. Lower extremity edema, or swelling, is also a significant symptom, often resulting from fluid retention due to hypertension and the physiological changes in the body during pregnancy.

These symptoms combined contribute to the diagnosis of preeclampsia, which usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy. It's critical to monitor preeclampsia due to the potential risks it poses to both the mother and the fetus, which can lead to more severe conditions if left untreated. In contrast, other options like eclampsia refer to a more severe progression of preeclampsia involving seizures, gestational diabetes involves issues with blood sugar levels, and placenta previa pertains to the positioning of the placenta in relation to the cervix—none of which encompass the full combination of symptoms characteristic of preeclampsia.