Which of the following indicates a severe case of preeclampsia?

The presence of severe headache and visual changes is a critical indicator of severe preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and often involves the presence of protein in the urine. However, when distinguishing between mild and severe cases, specific symptoms are crucial.

In severe preeclampsia, patients may experience significant neurological symptoms, such as severe headaches, which can often be described as throbbing or persistent and may not respond to standard pain relief. Visual changes—including blurred vision, seeing spots, or temporary loss of vision—also indicate potential involvement of the central nervous system and can signal escalating severity that requires immediate medical intervention to prevent complications for both the mother and fetus.

While proteinuria is a common finding in preeclampsia, it alone does not fully classify the severity of the condition. Controlled blood pressure suggests that the situation may be managed, and the absence of symptoms doesn't align with the characteristics of severe preeclampsia, which is often marked by significant clinical features. Therefore, the presence of severe headache and visual changes points to a higher level of concern and the necessity for prompt evaluation and treatment.