Hyperemesis gravidarum
Definition
Hyperemesis gravidarum is extreme, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that may lead to dehydration.
Alternative Names
Nausea - persistent - in pregnancy; Vomiting - persistent - in pregnancy
Causes
Nearly all women have some nausea or vomiting, or "morning sickness," particularly during the first 3 months of pregnancy. The cause of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is believed to be rapidly rising blood levels of a hormone called HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is released by the placenta.
Extreme nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can happen if you are pregnant with twins (or more) or if you have a hydatidiform mole.
Symptoms
- Severe, persistent nausea during pregnancy, often leads to weight loss
- Lightheadedness or fainting
Exams and Tests
The doctor will perform a physical exam. Blood pressure may be low. Pulse may be high.
The following laboratory tests will be done to check for signs of dehydration:
Your doctor may need to run tests to rule out liver and gastrointestinal problems.
A pregnancy ultrasound will be done to see if you are carrying twins or more, and to check for a hydatidiform mole.
Treatment
Small, frequent meals and eating dry foods such as crackers may help relieve uncomplicated nausea.
You should drink plenty of fluids. Increase fluids during the times of the day when you feel the least nauseated. Seltzer, ginger ale, or other sparkling waters may be helpful.
Vitamin B6 (no more than 100 mg daily) has been shown to decrease the nausea in early pregnancy.
Medication to prevent nausea is reserved for cases where vomiting is persistent and severe enough to present potential risks to you and your unborn baby. In severe cases, you may be admitted to the hospital, where fluids will be given to you through an IV.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Nausea and vomiting usually peaks between 2 and 12 weeks of pregnancy and goes away by the second half of pregnancy. With proper identification of symptoms and careful follow-up, this condition rarely presents serious complications for the infant or mother.
Possible Complications
Too much vomiting is harmful because it leads to dehydration and poor weight gain during pregnancy.
Social or psychological problems may be associated with this disorder of pregnancy. If such problems exist, they need to be identified and addressed appropriately.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you are pregnant and have severe nausea and vomiting.
References
Hepatic and gastrointestinal diseases. In: Gabbe SG, Niebyl JR, Simpson JL. Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 5th ed. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone; 2007:Chap.43
Jewell D, Young G. Interventions for nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2003;(4):CD000145
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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