Which are the symptoms of HELLP Syndrome?

See the worst symptoms of affected by HELLP Syndrome here


HELLP syndrome is a rare but serious pregnancy complication that affects the blood and liver. The acronym HELLP stands for Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count, which are the key features of this condition. It typically occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy, but can also develop shortly after childbirth.



The symptoms of HELLP syndrome can vary from woman to woman, and some may experience only a few while others may have several. It is important to note that not all women with HELLP syndrome will exhibit all of these symptoms. However, recognizing the signs is crucial for early detection and prompt medical intervention.



Hemolysis: This refers to the breakdown of red blood cells. Symptoms related to hemolysis may include:



  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

  • Dark-colored urine

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Shortness of breath



Elevated Liver enzymes: HELLP syndrome can cause liver damage, leading to abnormal liver function. Signs of elevated liver enzymes may include:



  • Upper abdominal pain or tenderness

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Headache

  • Swelling or edema



Low Platelet count: Platelets are responsible for blood clotting. In HELLP syndrome, platelet levels drop significantly, resulting in impaired clotting ability. Symptoms associated with low platelet count may include:



  • Easy or excessive bruising

  • Prolonged bleeding from minor cuts or injuries

  • >Nosebleeds
  • Unexplained or excessive bleeding



In addition to these primary symptoms, women with HELLP syndrome may also experience:



  • High blood pressure (hypertension)

  • Swelling in the hands, face, or legs (edema)

  • Proteinuria (presence of protein in urine)

  • Severe headaches or migraines

  • Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or seeing flashing lights

  • Generalized malaise or feeling unwell

  • Epigastric pain (pain in the upper abdomen)



If a pregnant woman experiences any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. HELLP syndrome can progress rapidly and lead to life-threatening complications for both the mother and the baby. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to ensure the best possible outcome.


by Diseasemaps

The low platelets resulting in losing consciousness throughout labour

5/18/17 by Charlotte 1000

Upper chest pain under ribs on right side Reflux Constantly needing to go to bath room but little unrination. Urine turning brown means kidney failure

5/18/17 by Chantal 2150

HELLP syndrome is the medical name given to a serious complication of Pre Eclampsia involving a combination of liver and blood disorders. HELLP stands for H (haemolysis - red blood cell damage); EL (elevated liver enzymes - indicating liver damage); and LP (low platelets in the blood leading to a bleeding tendency). HELLP syndrome may be associated with other signs of Pre Eclampsia, such as high blood pressure, protein in the urine and swelling of the hands, feet or face. However, this is not always the case, and this may make its diagnosis more difficult. Women with HELLP syndrome often complain of a pain in the upper abdomen below the ribs, which is indicative of a tender liver. There may also be heartburn, vomiting and headache. The upper abdominal pain of the HELLP syndrome can be very severe, and is not relieved by simple remedies such as antacids, which would be the case if heartburn, for example, was the cause of the pain. HELLP syndrome symptoms can often be confused with other problems such as gallstones (cholelithiasis), inflammation of the gall bladder (cholecystitis) or liver inflammation (hepatitis). As with the more typical cases of Pre Eclampsia, HELLP syndrome can arise at any stage during the second half of pregnancy. The diagnosis of HELLP syndrome can be made by blood tests which examine liver enzymes, red blood cells and platelets. As with typical Pre Eclampsia, delivery is required for cure of the HELLP syndrome,irrespective of the stage of the pregnancy and maturity of the baby. Because the HELLP syndrome can be associated with a bleeding tendency secondary to a deficiency of platelets, it may be necessary to administer platelet transfusions. This may be particularly important before undertaking any surgery, such as a Caesarean section.

5/21/17 by Kristy 2050

High blood pressure, liver failure, further health conditions later in life, heart conditions later in life. It could result in a premature baby, loss of life for mother and/or child.

5/22/17 by Ashley 1220

I don't believe I have any residual issues from HELLP other than low muscle strength in my core due to surgery to repair my ruptured liver caused by HELLP. Due to low core muscle strength I suffer from chronic low back pain and other spinal pain. Occasionally I experience pain when I bend over or crunch the area my liver resides in due to adhesion's.

5/24/17 by KJVGray 550

Liver Failure and Pre Clampsia

9/10/17 by Lisa 250

Protein spilling in urine, seeing 'floaters', RUQ abd pain (hepatic). Edema. Dyspnea. HBP. Headaches.

11/7/17 by Laura 1200
Translated from spanish Improve translation

In a consultation with other women who have suffered Gives you a pain in the pit of stomach that you have inflammation in the liver. The pressure rises subitamente. You can introduce yourself to between 20 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. Can occur post-pregnancy. Affects tract bile. Difficulty breathing. Swollen hands and feet. Carpal tunnel.

8/11/17 by Carolina. Translated

Top questions

What is the life expectancy of someone with HELLP Syndrome?

Celebrities with HELLP Syndrome

Is HELLP Syndrome hereditary?

Is HELLP Syndrome contagious?

Is there any natural treatment for HELLP Syndrome?

View more questions of HELLP Syndrome

World map of HELLP Syndrome


Find people with HELLP Syndrome through the map. Connect with them and share experiences. Join the HELLP Syndrome community.

There are 291 people in the map. View Map of HELLP Syndrome