What condition is characterized by gestational hypertension along with proteinuria?

Preeclampsia is characterized by the development of gestational hypertension combined with proteinuria after 20 weeks of pregnancy. This condition reflects systemic issues related to pregnancy and can pose significant risks to both the mother and the fetus. The presence of protein in the urine signifies that the kidneys are being affected, which is a critical component in diagnosing preeclampsia.

Gestational diabetes, on the other hand, involves high blood sugar levels during pregnancy but does not involve hypertension or proteinuria. HELLP syndrome is a severe form of preeclampsia that includes hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count but is not specifically defined by gestational hypertension and proteinuria alone. Postpartum hypertension refers to elevated blood pressure that occurs after childbirth, which is also not related to gestational hypertension and proteinuria. Thus, preeclampsia is distinctly recognized for its dual symptoms of elevated blood pressure and proteinuria during pregnancy.