How is hyperemesis gravidarum diagnosed?
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe, debilitating form of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy that can pose a serious threat to the health of both mother and child.
Symptoms of HG typically begin in the first trimester and peak around week 9 of pregnancy. However, some women experience symptoms throughout their pregnancy. HG can be accompanied by severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and weight loss.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:
• Nausea and vomiting that prevents you from keeping down liquids or any food
• Weight loss of more than 5% of your pre-pregnancy body weight
• Signs of dehydration, including decreased urine output, dry mouth, or dizziness
• Electrolyte imbalances, as evidenced by muscle cramps or weakness, heart palpitations, or headache
• Ketone production in the urine
Your healthcare provider will likely Suspect HG based on your symptoms and medical history. To confirm the diagnosis, they may recommend basic blood and urine tests. These tests can rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as a stomach virus or food poisoning.
If you are diagnosed with HG, your healthcare provider will work with you to create a treatment plan. In most cases, treatment will focus on managing symptoms and preventing complications.
You will likely be advised to do the following:
• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, and clear soups, to prevent dehydration.
• Eat small, frequent meals and avoid trigger foods that make your symptoms worse.
• Take vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6 and ginger, to help relieve nausea.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Avoid activities that make your symptoms worse.
• Avoid hot showers, which can make nausea and vomiting worse.
In some cases, more aggressive treatment may be necessary. If you are not responding to lifestyle changes and home remedies, your healthcare provider may recommend one or more of the following:
• Antiemetic medication, such as ondansetron (Zofran), to help relieve nausea and vomiting.
• Intravenous (IV) fluids to treat dehydration.
• Total parenteral nutrition (TPN), which is a form of nutrition that is delivered through an IV.
• Hospitalization for IV fluids, TPN, and close monitoring.
If you are diagnosed with HG, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and to seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen. With treatment, most women with HG are able to have a healthy pregnancy..Official source
What shouldn’t I do if I have hyperemesis gravidarum?
If you have been diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum, there are a few things you should avoid doing. First, do not try to tough it out. Hyperemesis gravidarum is a serious condition that can lead to dehydration and other complications. If you are vomiting multiple times a day and are unable to keep anything down, please see your doctor or go to the emergency room. Second, do not try to self-medicate. There are a variety of over-the-counter medications that can help with nausea and vomiting, but it is best to speak with your doctor before taking anything. You may also be prescribed medications to help with the nausea and vomiting. Third, do not skip meals. It is important to try to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day. Eating will help to calm your stomach and may help to reduce the nausea and vomiting. Fourth, do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can make the nausea and vomiting worse. If you are taking medications for the hyperemesis gravidarum, alcohol can also interact with the medications and make them ineffective. Fifth, do not smoke cigarettes. Cigarette smoke can make the nausea and vomiting worse. If you are pregnant, smoking cigarettes can also lead to a variety of complications for both you and your baby. Sixth, do not lay down immediately after eating. This can make the nausea and vomiting worse. Try to wait at least 30 minutes after eating before lying down. Seventh, do not take over-the-counter medications for constipation. These medications can make the nausea and vomiting worse. If you are constipated, speak with your doctor about safe medications to take. Eighth, do not take over-the-counter medications for heartburn. These medications can also make the nausea and vomiting worse. If you are experiencing heartburn, speak with your doctor about safe medications to take. Ninth, do not take hot baths. Hot baths can make the nausea and vomiting worse. If you are feeling nauseous, try taking a cool bath or shower instead. Tenth, do not lay on your back. Laying on your back can cause the nausea and vomiting to worsen. Try sleeping on your side instead.
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