MORNING SICKNESS

Morning sickness is normal in the first trimester of pregnancy – it may be vomiting and nausea or only nausea.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should consult your doctor immediately.

• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Fewer urination
• Color of urine is dark
• Unable to keep liquids down
• Feeling dizzy or fainting while standing up
• Racing heartbeat
• Vomiting blood

DIAGNOSIS

Morning sickness can be diagnosed using the symptoms. When HG is suspected, doctor will ask for blood and urine tests.

Sometimes doctors recommend ultrasound scan to identify the potential reasons and also to check the number of fetuses.

Higher ketone levels indicate that the mother is malnourished due to vomiting.

MEDICATIONS/TREATMENT

Tiredness and eating greasy or fatty foods can trigger nausea or vomiting. To treat morning sickness you should avoid some foods and get enough rest.

Your doctor will recommend some lifestyle and dietary changes based on your symptoms. You must ensure that your food contains the required nutrients and also improves the symptoms of morning sickness.

The following changes might help you improve the symptoms:

• Adequate rest to avoid tiredness and nausea
• Having toast or biscuit before waking up
• Consuming plenty of fluids like water
• Getting help from your friends and family
• Having small and frequent meals that are rich in carbohydrate and less in fat content
• Avoiding smells or foods that may cause you sickness
• Avoiding cold, sweet or tart drinks avoiding drinks
• Avoiding clothes with tight waistbands
• Keeping yourself distracted as thinking of nausea can make you feel sick

In most cases medications or doctors consultation is not needed. If you experience severe symptoms consult your doctor and have the recommended medication to ease symptoms.