Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and electrolyte disturbance. Mild cases are treated with dietary changes, rest, and antacids. More severe cases often require a stay in the hospital so that the mother can receive fluid and nutrition through an intravenous line (IV). DO NOT take any medications to solve this problem without first consulting your health care provider. Why is this happening to me? The majority of pregnant women experience some type of morning sickness (70 – 80%). Recent studies show that at least 60, 000 cases of extreme morning sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) are reported by those who treated in a hospital but the numbers are expected to be much higher than this since many women are treated at home or by out patient care with their health care provider. It is believed that this severe nausea is caused by a rise in hormone levels; however, the absolute cause is still unknown. The symptoms of HG usually appear between 4-6 weeks of pregnancy and may peak between 9-13 weeks. Most women receive some relief between weeks 14-20, although up to 20% of women may require care for hyperemesis throughout the rest of their pregnancy. There is no known prevention of Hyperemesis gravidarum but you can take comfort in knowing that there are ways to manage it. Distinguishing between morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum: Morning Sickness: Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Nausea sometimes accompanied by vomiting Nausea accompanied by severe vomiting Nausea that subsides at 12 weeks or soon after Nausea that does not subside Vomiting that does not cause severe dehydration Vomiting that causes severe dehydration Vomiting that allows you to keep some food down Vomiting that does not allow you to keep any food down Signs and symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum: Severe nausea and vomiting Food aversions Weight loss of 5% or more of pre-pregnancy weight Decrease in urination Dehydration Headaches Confusion Fainting Jaundice Extreme fatigue Low blood pressure Rapid heart rate Loss of skin elasticity Secondary anxiety/depression What are the treatments for hyperemesis gravidarum? In some cases, hyperemesis gravidarum is so severe that hospitalization may be required. Hospital treatment may include some or all of the following: Intravenous fluids (IV) – to restore hydration, electrolytes, vitamins, and nutrients Tube feeding: Nasogastric – restores nutrients through a tube passing through the nose and into the stomach Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy – restores nutrients through a tube passing through the abdomen and into the stomach; requires a surgical procedure Medications – metoclopramide, antihistamines, and antireflux medications* Ashwini Hospital Moondrumavadi Madurai Best Fertility Center in South Tamilnadu
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