In addition to being called Ballantyne Syndrome and triple edema, mirror syndrome addresses the symptoms of depressed mood and fatigue. The abnormally high fetal weight results from excessive fluids and preeclampsia, high blood pressure from hypertension, or pregnancy. Rarely does anyone suffer from this condition? Nonetheless, it is extremely dangerous and sometimes even deadly when it occurs.
Complications during pregnancy such as mirror syndrome may be stressful and frightening, but early recognition and treatment will help to diagnose and treat the issue. Atypical pregnancy symptoms require early intervention to ensure a healthy pregnancy and child.
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Symptoms of Mirror Syndrome
As soon as possible after noticing the symptoms of mirror syndrome, you should seek medical attention. This could be the result of another condition, such as preeclampsia, so a professional medical examination and diagnosis are essential. If you have preeclampsia and mirror syndrome you need to make sure you don’t have both conditions.
Mirror syndrome can be characterized by the following symptoms:
- Swelling that is significant and severe
- High blood pressure
- Urine with protein in it (easy to diagnose at the doctor’s office)
- An increase in weight that is significant and severe
Hemodilution (lower number of red blood cells and more plasma in the blood) can sometimes indicate mirror syndrome in a blood test. The body builds up excess fluid, which causes this condition. [1]
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Causes of Mirror Syndrome
A cause for mirror syndrome is unknown because it is rare. A condition known as fetal hydrops is what typically causes mirror syndrome. During fetal development, fluid accumulates in the tissues as it leaves the bloodstream. According to the type of fetal hydrops, the cause may vary, but it is typically a result of complications that compromise the natural ability of the fetus to regulate fluids.
Viral infections, genetic disorders, metabolic disorders, and heart complications are the most common causes of fetal hydrops. There is a possibility of twin-twin transfusion syndrome resulting in fetal hydrops in twin-bearing mothers.
The mother can also develop preeclampsia in conjunction with water in the lungs due to these complications.
Related: Postpartum Hypertension: What Is It And What Are Its Risks?
Diagnosis
To diagnose mirror syndrome, there is no specific test. It is possible to diagnose a patient using other tests, however. It is typically possible to detect preeclampsia by blood pressure measurements and/or protein levels in the urine when excess fluid is detected in the fetus during ultrasounds.
A diagnosis of mirror syndrome may be made by combining the information from these tests with self-reported symptoms and signs which a doctor or healthcare provider has observed.
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Treatment Mirror Syndrome
The treatment for mirror syndrome can depend on the specific situation since it is so rare. Preeclampsia and fetal hydrops can often be treated differently depending on the underlying cause. Both a mother and her infant may benefit from treatment if the underlying cause and severity of mirror syndrome are known.
When preeclampsia is significant, the delivery may be indicated, in which case maternal symptoms will be relieved within days after the delivery. As soon as the baby is born, medical professionals in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) will examine the baby and determine an appropriate course of action.
Mirror syndrome and preeclampsia symptoms should be taken seriously if you experience them.
Tell your doctor or healthcare professional about any symptoms you experience, even if they are minor.
Pregnancy pains may be the cause of the symptoms. The sooner you observe the signs, the better off you will be in dealing with them. Consult your obstetrician about any changes in your baby’s movement and any signs and symptoms you are experiencing. You will also be monitored for preeclampsia and fetal growth during regular prenatal care.
Related: Cardiomyopathy Peripartum: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
The Bottom Line
Despite its rarity and the potential for serious complications, mirror syndrome can be treated. Regardless of whether you feel as though you are overreacting, never ignore changes in your body and inform your doctor as soon as possible. Mirror syndrome must be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
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