[buggage]

HG is a severe illness experienced in pregnancy, and is often misunderstood. I believe that I have had it with all of my pregnancies, and was never diagnosed. I think with each pregnancy it has gotten better, but it has definitely not been fun, and I definitely plan on talking to my doctor on my first appointment. It is not widely known about, and most women who have it, go throughout their pregnancies feeling over whelmed, depressed and lost. Many people who don't understand it, often look at you like you are simply weak, or doing it for attention, something that's " all in your head", and don't understand the fullness of how it effects your life. My reasons in posting this are to raise awareness of it, not only for those experience it, but those who may know those who are experiencing it.this can be very dibilitating and frustrating in a time that should be a time of joy. I even had a friend who lost her baby and almost her life at about 6 months of pregnancy, because of severe depletions in her potasium levels. She previously did not know about this condition... until it was to late. This was her second pregnancy. Definitely not something that is "all in your head." So here is the listing of symptoms and signs, and a helpful site for information.

Help HER - » For Family & Friends | FAQs

More Than Morning Sickness

* rapid loss of weight (sometimes more than 10% of pre-pregnancy weight)
* dehydration
* critical nutrient deficiencies in early pregnancy
* metabolic imbalances, including ketosis
* inability to participate in previous levels of activity, including daily living

* Dry, furry tongue
* Excessive thirst
* Loss of skin elasticity
* Pale, waxy, dry skin
* Headache
* Extreme fatigue
* Secondary anxiety, depression
* Intolerance to motion, noise, light
* Vomiting blood
* Body odor due to rapid weight loss & ketosis
* Fainting or dizziness
* Rapid heart rate
* Confusion
* Rapid weight loss (2 or more pounds/week) due to excessive nausea and vomiting.
... in conjunction with the common morning sickness symptoms of
* Food aversions
* Increased sense of smell
* Sensitive gag reflex
* Excessive salivation
* Difficulty sleeping
* Vomiting of mucus in addition to foods/fluids
* Constipation

If you have any of these symptoms, know anyone who does, or just wish to know more about it, please ask your doctor to explain it more thoroughly