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Hyperemesis Gravidarum Case Studies

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This patient has a strong history of substance abuse, including tobacco and marijuana. She readily admits an understanding of the deleterious effects of tobacco on both her and her baby’s health – in the short and long term – and expresses an interest in quitting. Regarding marijuana, she is less apologetic, stating her consistent and generous use was necessary to curb her nausea throughout the entire duration of the pregnancy.

Nausea in pregnancy is extremely common, particularly in the first trimester. Up to 90% of pregnant women experience some degree of nausea – with or without emesis – during their pregnancy; 57% of first trimester pregnancies are accompanied by nausea. Severe symptoms occur in up to 3% of pregnancies. Hyperemesis gravidarum …show more content…

Nausea may be a manifestation of somatic symptom disorder, or stress may contribute directly to nausea. Stress can also exacerbate the symptoms of pre-existing nausea and emesis in a circular pattern of cause and effect that is difficult to distinguish. Increased levels of estrogen, progesterone, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) may contribute to the development of nausea during pregnancy as well. Studies have not yet demonstrated a causal link, but the coincidental timing of hCG peaking in the first trimester and the typical onset of nausea in pregnancy – especially hyperemesis gravidarum – is hard to ignore. Both estrogen and progesterone relax smooth muscle and consequently slow gastric motility, potentially leading to nausea and even emesis. Myriad other causes have been postulated including deficiencies in specific macronutrients or vitamins/minerals, autoimmune conditions, and autonomic …show more content…

Sufficient fluid intake and avoiding nausea triggers are practical options. Ginger can sometimes relieve nausea and indigestion as well. Pharmacologic therapy includes pyridoxine (vitamin B6), doxylamine, antihistamines (H1 antagonists), dopamine antagonists, and serotonin antagonists. Importantly, while marijuana does have antiemetic effects, especially in the setting of cancer and chemotherapy, ACOG strongly discourages its use in pregnancy due to the potential harmful effects on fetal

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