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Severe Vomiting in Pregnancy - Hyperemesis Gravidarum


Diagnosis & Tests

How is the condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on a history of the woman's symptoms and a physical exam. Lab tests are also done to look for signs of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. These tests may include:

  • amylase
  • blood calcium level
  • serum electrolytes, which can show low potassium or sodium levels in blood. Low levels can mean dehydration or acid-base imbalance.
  • hematocrit, part of a blood count, which may become high due to dehydration
  • liver enzymes and bilirubin
  • urinalysis for ketones and specific gravity. Ketones are a sign of starvation. Specific gravity can show dehydration.
  • An ultrasound may also be done to check the condition of the baby and the womb. If a woman has abdominal pain or vomits blood, the doctor may do an endoscopy. This is a test where a small tube is passed through a woman's mouth and throat down to her stomach. The tube has a light at the end, which helps the doctor to look for problems in the stomach.

    Extreme nausea and vomiting in pregnancy may also mean there are other more serious disorders going on. These include:

  • hydatidiform mole, which is an abnormal tumorous growth of the placenta
  • viral gastroenteritis
  • flu
  • food poisoning
  • hepatitis A
  • hepatitis B
  • hepatitis C
  • urinary tract infection
  • appendicitis
  • cholecystitis, which is an inflammation of the gallbladder
  • ulcers
  • Tests that may help to rule out other disorders include:

  • serum for hepatitis testing
  • liver function tests
  • ultrasound to look at gallbladder
  • urinalysis and culture to test for bacteria
  • ultrasound to look for twins or a tumorous growth of the placenta

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