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Hyperemesis Guidelines

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition that affects a small percentage of pregnant women. Excessive nausea and vomiting with pregnancy can cause severe complications for the pregnant woman and her baby. If you have the symptoms of hyperemesis, it is important to be in close contact with your doctor to prevent dehydration. Your doctor might also be able to prescribe or approve medications for the relief of nausea or vomiting.

  1. Symptoms

    • Typical symptoms of hyperemesis include excessive vomiting and nausea, which are not only more extreme than normal morning sickness, but are also more prolonged. You can think of hyperemesis as extremely severe morning sickness that lasts around the clock. For many women, hyperemesis begins to abate after the 20th week of pregnancy. For some, however, the nausea and vomiting continue throughout the pregnancy, and are only relieved by giving birth. A doctor will probably diagnose you with hyperemesis if you are dehydrated, show ketones in your urine and have lost more than 5 percent of your body weight because of vomiting.

    Calling Your Doctor

    • If you are pregnant, it's best to call your doctor if you have any concerns, but particularly if you are losing weight quickly or are unable to keep any food or liquids down. In addition, you should see your doctor if you get dizzy or confused, vomit bile or frequently throw up small amounts of foods or liquids.

    Staying Hydrated

    • It can be difficult to stay hydrated when you have hyperemesis. A heightened sense of smell can make everything you try to drink taste or smell odious, making you more nauseous. Some women are able to keep liquids down in the form of popsicles or sports drinks, while others require hospitalization and intravenous fluids.

    Getting Relief

    • If you are having trouble staying hydrated, your doctor might prescribe any number of anti-nausea medications. These medications might have side effects, and have the potential to cause lasting harm to you or your baby, so you should discuss the choice of medications carefully with your doctor. Some medications prescribed to reduce nausea include Zofran, Prednisone and Phenergan. Nonprescription medications might also be suggested by your doctor, including Doxylamine and Benadryl.

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