HYPEREMESIS GRAVIDARUM Hyperemesis Gravidarum is excessive nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. This pernicious vomiting is differentiated from the more common and more normal morning sickness by the fact that it is of greater intensity and extends beyond the first trimester. Hyperemesis gravidarum may occur in any of the three trimesters. It is a condition affecting one in 1,000 pregnancies. Hyperemesis gravidarum is a complication of pregnancy that is characterized by severe nausea and vomiting such that weight loss occur. The exact cause of hyperemesis gravidarum is not known. Risk factors include the first pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, obesity or family history of hyperemesis gravidarum. DEFINITION Hyperemesis Gravidarum is defined as extreme, excessive, and persistent vomiting in early pregnancy that may lead to dehydration and malnutrition. INCIDENCE- There has been marked fall in the incidence during the last 30years. It is now a rarity in hospital practice ( less than 1 in 1000 pregnancies). (a)Better application of family planning knowledge which reduces the number of unplanned pregnancies,(b) Early visit to the antenatal clinic and (c) Potent antihistaminic, antiemetic drugs. THEORY • Endocrine theory :high levels of hCG & estrogen during pregnancy • Metabolic theory :vitamin B6 deficiency • Psychological theory : Psychological stress increase the symptoms CLINICAL MANIFESTATION- From the management and prognostic point of view the clinical manifestation divided in to two types- • EARLY • LATE (moderate to severe) 1)Early- Vomiting occurs throughout the day. Normal day to day activities are curtailed. There is no evidence of dehydration or starvation. 2)late-(Evidence of dehydration and starvation are present). o Tachycardia. o Hypotension. o Rise in temperature. o Poor appetite. o Poor nutritional intake. o Loss of more than 25% of body weight. o Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. o Rapid pulse and low blood pressure. o Occasionally, jaundice develops in severe cases. DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION- • Opthalmoscopic examination: Required if the patient is seriously ill. Retinal hemorrhage and detachment of the retina are the most unfavorable signs. • ECG: When there is abnormal serum potassium level. COMPLICATION Weight loss Dehydration Metabolic acidosis from starvation Hypokalemia (electrolyte imbalance) MANAGEMENT- Women with hyperemesis gravidarum are admitted to the hospital. Initially nothing is given by mouth. Hypovolemia and electrolyte imbalance are corrected by intravenous infusion. Vitamin supplements are given parenterally. Fluids and diet are gradually introduced as the woman’s condition improves. principles of management : • To control vomiting. • To correct the fluids and electrolytes imbalance. • To correct metabolic disturbances(acidosis or alkalosis). • To prevent the serious complications of severe vomiting. Hospitalization-