Overview
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) begins between the fourth and
sixth week of pregnancy. Symptoms usually improve somewhat
by the 15th to 20th week of gestation, although some women
continue to have frequent relapses throughout pregnancy. Most
affected women have numerous episodes of vomiting throughout
the day with few if any symptom-free periods, especially during
the first three to four months. This leads to significant
and rapid weight loss, dehydration, electrolyte disturbances,
and nutritional deficiencies often requiring hospitalization.
If prolonged or more severe and not treated promptly, these
can lead to kidney or liver damage. Numerous complications,
some of which can be life-threatening are possible without
adequate medical intervention. These women present to their
medical providers with weight
loss of five to 20+ pounds;
however, since some are overweight to begin with, they may
not appear malnourished. This is especially true as the pregnancy
progresses. Early medical care may decrease severity of a
woman's symptoms and lead to quicker recovery.
Updated on:
Apr. 05, 2009 |
