This disorder is varcharacterized by severe nausea and vomiting in a pregnant woman. It causes dehydration and drastic changes in body chemistry. This is much more serious than morning sickness during pregnancy.
Causes of Hyperemesis Gravidarum
No cause for this disorder may be found. Multiple pregnancy, which produces high levels of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, may lead to this condition. Inflammation of the pancreas, bile duct disease, psychological factors, such as depression or a poor response to stress, and thyroid disorders all have been associated with the onset of this disorder during pregnancy.
Signs and Symptoms of Hyperemesis Gravidarum
Symptoms of Hyperemesis gravidarum include severe nausea and sustained vomiting, usually persisting from 4-8 weeks. Early on, the vomitus may contain only mucus. Later, it is frequently discolored green or brown from bile or blood. Dehydration gradually occurs along with failure to gain weight. The skin may appear unusually pale, dry, waxy and sometimes yellow. Headache, confusion and lethargy may develop. A rapid heart beat may develop from dehydration, low blood pressure or gastrointestinal bleeding.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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