What You Should Know About Eclampsia after Olympian's Death

Professional athletes are often considered the pinnacle of health – which made the untimely death of Olympic sprinter Tori Bowie during childbirth so surprising. A recent autopsy listed Bowie’s cause of death as eclampsia.

But what exactly is eclampsia and who’s at risk? And most importantly, what can be done to prevent deadly complications in pregnant women?

What is eclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a late-pregnancy complication that causes dangerously high blood pressure. It generally happens after 20 weeks, and if untreated, can cause eclampsia – a more severe complication that can cause seizures or coma.

Read on.