Hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition pregnant women could get, characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and sometimes electrolyte disturbance. DO NOT take any medications without asking your doctor.
Your doctor will probably want to give you some intravenous fluids right away, since you’re likely to be seriously dehydrated. Then you’ll need to do some tests to check your electrolyte levels and make sure no underlying illness is causing your constant vomiting. Depending on your condition, you may need to be hospitalized for a few days so that you can continue to receive fluids and medication.
Many women feel much better after they’re rehydrated and are able to control their symptoms with anti-nausea medication. As soon as your condition stabilizes, you should be able to go home, where you can continue taking oral medications. Your doctor may recommend a diet to reduce nausea and vomiting. Both dietary changes and medications may be necessary because many women who suffer from hyperemesis gravidarum continue to have some morning sickness well into their pregnancy, even if it’s not as severe as before.
In rare cases, you’ll need to continue to receive intravenous therapy in the hospital or at home.
If inadequately treated, hyperemesis gravidarum can result in chronic dehydration, weight loss, malnutrition, and other complications for you and your baby.
