Final answer:
Preeclampsia in pregnancy is characterized by hypertension, edema, and proteinuria. Hypertension and proteinuria are definitive signs, while edema of the hands and feet is a common symptom. Bradycardia is unrelated to preeclampsia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Preeclampsia is a condition that can occur during pregnancy, typically after 20 weeks of gestation. It is characterized by several key symptoms that should be monitored closely. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a hallmark sign of preeclampsia and often the initial indicator. Another symptom that may be present is edema, specifically in areas such as the hands and feet. This swelling occurs due to fluid accumulation and is consistent with the information regarding physiological causes of edema, which include water leakage from blood capillaries. Moreover, proteinuria, or the presence of excess protein in the urine, is another classic sign of preeclampsia and reflects kidney involvement, which can be seen in conditions like glomerulonephritis.
Regarding the options provided in the question: a) Hypertension and d) Proteinuria are indeed associated with preeclampsia. Conversely, b) Edema could be a related symptom, though not specific to preeclampsia as it can occur in various conditions during pregnancy. Option c) Bradycardia, which is a slower than normal heart rate, is not typically associated with preeclampsia.