Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Hyperemesis gravidarum, also called HEG, is severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. It results in dehydration, weight loss, and a disturbance in the acid-base balance in the body.
Around half of all pregnant women have some nausea and/or vomiting during the first few months of pregnancy. But HEG occurs in less than 2 percent of all pregnancies (less than 5 in 1000 women).
What is going on in the body?
In most cases, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is mild and does not last long. When it becomes so severe that it interferes with getting enough fluids and nutrients, the woman may need to be treated.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
There is much that is not known about the causes and risks related to HEG. Much more study is needed before experts will have definite answers.
Causes
The exact cause of pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting remains unclear. Some studies suggest the following:
Risks
No one race seems to be at risk for HEG, but it is less common in the following races:
The risk for HEG seems to decrease as women grow older. Cigarette smoking also seems to lower the risk. However, smoking presents other risks to the unborn baby, so should not be used as a preventive factor!
Experts believe the following factors may increase the risk for HEG: