Hyperemesis gravidarum, or excessive vomiting in pregnancy, is considered a complication of pregnancy affecting 3 percent of pregnant women. It is not the same thing as morning sickness because it can have serious effects if not managed correctly.
What is hyperemesis gravidarum?
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a very severe form of morning sickness and it usually occurs in the first few weeks of pregnancy.Symptoms can include persistent vomiting, dehydration, tiredness and dizziness. When these symptoms are severe, admission to hospital may be needed for observation and to treat dehydration with intravenous fluids, however, this usually only means a few days in hospital.The condition usually subsides by week 12 of pregnancy and, with early diagnosis and treatment, there is no reason why the mother should not expect a healthy pregnancy.
Morning sickness
Morning sickness affects a large proportion of pregnant women. It is most common during the first trimester, but for some women morning sickness lingers throughout pregnancy. Many forms of morning sickness do not require medications, but a few might need anti-emetics.
What are the symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum?
The symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum go far beyond the discomfort of morning sickness and require urgent medical attention. They include:
• Prolonged and severe nausea and vomiting
• Dehydration caused by the vomiting
• Ketosis – raised levels of toxic acidic chemicals in the blood called ketones
• Losing weight due to inability to keep food down
• Low blood pressure
What causes hyperemesis gravidarum?
The exact cause of hyperemesis is not entirely clear, but the hormonal changes of pregnancy are thought to play a role. Rarely, severe or persistent nausea or vomiting may be caused by a medical condition – unrelated to pregnancy — such as thyroid or liver disease.
Treatment
Individuals with hyperemesis gravidarum may need to be treated with intravenous (IV) fluids and anti-nausea medications in the hospital.The best advice for anyone suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum is to get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluid. Individuals with hyperemesis must see their obstetrician as they cannot control their symptoms on their own.
Complications
Once hyperemesis gravidarum is diagnosed and correctly treated complications are few. Some patients might experience weight loss. In severe cases vitamin B deficiency might occur and this can lead to complications.
Conclusion
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a more severe form of morning sickness that occurs in the first part of a pregnancy. The symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum can be very severe and often require admission to hospital for a brief period. The prognosis is very good once the symptoms are controlled.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Dr Brett Hodge is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over thirty years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in the Johnson Building in The Valley.
