Hyperemesis gravidarum overview
|
Hyperemesis gravidarum Microchapters |
|
Diagnosis |
|---|
|
Treatment |
|
Case Studies |
|
Hyperemesis gravidarum overview On the Web |
|
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Hyperemesis gravidarum overview |
|
Risk calculators and risk factors for Hyperemesis gravidarum overview |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Hyperemesis gravidarum (from Greek hyper and Latin emesis and gravida; meaning "excessive vomiting of pregnant women") is a severe form of morning sickness, with unrelenting, excessive pregnancy-related nausea and/or vomiting that prevents adequate intake of food and fluids. Hyperemesis is considered a rare complication of pregnancy but, because nausea and vomiting during pregnancy exist on a continuum, there is no clear boundary between common morning sickness and hyperemesis. Estimates of the percentage of pregnant women afflicted range from 0.3% to 2%.
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a complication of pregnancy, defined as severe and persistent nausea and vomiting that can lead to electrolyte imbalances, weight loss and dehydration [1]. It can have negative consequences on the health of the mother and the fetus. This condition generally resolves as the pregnancy progresses, however most cases require treatment [2]. Hospitalizations and severity of complications can be minimized with early treatment [4].