When it comes to pregnancy, we tend to picture expecting mothers embracing their growing bellies while showered with love and attention from family members. But the reality can be a little different for some women- like those experiencing Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). If you're not familiar with this term yet, don't worry, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about HG - the symptoms, treatments and all things related!
What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum?
Let's start by understanding what exactly is HG in simple terms before delving deeper into the condition. This medical term refers to a severe form of morning sickness that occurs in pregnant women due to fluctuations in hormonal levels produced by pregnancy (did someone say hormones? Yikes!) This condition most commonly affects women during early pregnancy- often starting as soon as four weeks following conception.
How is it Different from Normal Morning Sickness?
While both regular morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum share classical features such as nausea or vomiting,they differ significantly when it comes to severity and duration; which quite honestly could make all the difference between barely surviving your day/getting through each day dreaming of sleeping after work or thriving/feel energized enough at least half a day .
For starters,women in their first trimester are considered more prone than others because of high hormonal changes occurring around then but whilst normal morning sickness tends to peak at around 9 weeks gestation period,moms-to-be diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum have continuous occurrences that last beyond week 20 which must feel like an eternity! Furthermore,it does not cease even after taking traditional remedies touted often by well-meaning loved ones.It signals there may be underlying medical complications responsible including electrolyte imbalances if left untreated.Can’t imagine keeping up with all that stress!
Symptoms of Hyperemesis Gravidarum
As we've already mentioned above, HG is an extreme form of morning sickness - so the symptoms are nausea and vomiting on a whole different level than what you may have experienced before. Let's take a closer look at some specific signs to watch out for:
- Severe nausea especially early in the day or after eating.
- Trouble Keeping Food Down
- Rapid Weight Loss during Pregnancy (eating small amounts or nothing, leading to dehydration)
- Dizziness and Fainting
- Decreased Urination Frequency Due to Dehydration (it’s always recommended hydration for everyone from young children/older adults/yup you guessed it!,expecting moms!)
Can someone pass us some bananas?The “Sniff,Dip,&Lick” test should be put into action towards managing such complications which I'm sure translates directly as what meal(s) can your stomach make peace with?
Treatments Available for HG
Here comes perhaps one of the most important parts - treatments available when facing hyperemesis gravidarum. You want relief ASAP because frequent Vomiting can lead to more medical problems like esophageal irritation,damage etc-closing down on whatever cozy corner this thing thrives! Treatment isn’t just about getting better,it means cutting further risks too.
Changing Eating Habits
Your doctor might prescribe dietary adjustments alongside monitoring weight gain since underweight babies could still result despite magical care This will involve swapping large meals for smaller portion sizes at regular intervals throughout the day. It works by reducing pressure exerted on digestive organs whilst food consumption regulates metabolism thereby reducing frequency/severity of symptoms.Winner!
Medication Therapy
There are over-the-counter pregnancy supplements women try out but remember-HG requires real prescription options.Extreme measures require specialty attention.This medication therapy is designed specifically by doctors to manage the worst symptoms of HG - this includes nausea, vomiting and dehydration.To keep both expectant mothers as well as their unborn babies safe from adverse effects that could lead to further complications from self-prescription. Hence a doctor’s prescription is required at all times before consumption of any drugs.
And with that,there's hope after all!Hyperemesis graviderium can be gotten under control,it might take time but it’ll work out fine in the end.Assuming treatment plans are followed strictly,symptoms should begin to see reduction over time.
Final notes
Don't forget; Keeping hydrated has been repeated over and again in this piece because-it cannot be overstatedSufficient water intake aids our bodily functions especially while pregnant.HG can leave an expecting mother feeling hopeless but you're not alone.There's always help available-keep calm,and do whatever works best for you(once it falls within medical guidelines)!