Hyperemesis Gravidarum ‘an Invisible and Silent Killer once misdiagnosed’

A major issue that have ravaged women from time immemorial and even with the development of technology in recent times is the negligence that women face in the health sector. This has led to damaging effect on women, their health issues and diagnosis. One of the conditions that affect pregnant women is hyperemesis gravidarum. This condition is seen in some pregnant women around the world, Africa and Nigeria to be precise.

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Women have been faced and still are faced with this condition among others. When it comes to hyperemesis gravidarum some women in the society lack the knowledge of it and some pregnant women are faced with death threats and wrong treatment due to misdiagnoses, mistreatment and misunderstanding of hyperemesis gravidarum, In some country an example of Nigeria there is the belief that the some pregnant women who has this condition is faced with spiritual issues or attacks or she is not strong to be pregnant.

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Hyperemesis gravidarum is a complication faced by pregnant women which involves the most severe form of nausea and vomiting. It is characterized by persistent nausea and vomiting which leads to dehydration, weight loss and ketosis. Other symptoms include excess salivation, dizziness, decrease in urination, headache, low blood pressure to mention a few.

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The history of Hyperemesis gravidarum is unknown, but the first clear medical history documentation has been traced to 1852 by Paul Antoine Dubois. In the recent times, the popular people that have it includes Kate Middleton also known as Duchess Kate of Cambridge, Kelly Clarkson, Amy Schumer and Amber Rose.

Due to the nature of its symptoms people tend to misdiagnose it especially in Nigeria, thus, it is important to go for regular checkup as a pregnant woman. If nausea and vomiting become severe it is advisable to see a doctor. Once diagnosed with Hyperemesis gravidarum, there would be a need for regular checkup, monitoring of food intake and weight among others.

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It is important to treat and maintain the condition by resting, taking antacid according to doctor’s prescription for mild cases, but for severe case, the woman would have to stay in the hospital in order to receive intravenous fluids (I.V).

The reason why Hyperemesis gravidarum is ‘an Invisible and Silent Killer’ is because once misdiagnosed, it tends to have more negative impact on women and can lead to loss of life of both mother and unborn child, miscarriage and premature birth.