Pregnancy Hyperemesis (HG) is a severe form of nausea and vomiting that can lead to serious complications for mother and baby. Although this condition is quite common, its cause has remained unknown until now. However, a new study by a team of scientists from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California points to a possible cause of HG: the hormone GDF15.
Researchers have been studying the hormone GDF15 since 2000, when it was first detected in high concentrations in the blood of pregnant women. Since then, studies have shown that GDF15 levels increase dramatically during pregnancy, and it seems that some women are more sensitive to this hormone than others.
In their latest study, scientists found several new rare and common genetic variants in the GDF15 gene that they linked to HG risk. They also found that GDF15 levels were significantly higher in a group of about 60 women with HG than in another group of healthy pregnant women of similar size.
“Our results place GDF15 in mechanistic heart [nausea and vomiting during pregnancy] and HG and clearly point the way toward strategies for its treatment and prevention,” the researchers said.
Although no new treatments have yet been developed based on this discovery, the news that scientists may have found the cause of HG should bring some relief to pregnant women.
How do you deal with morning sickness?
Although morning sickness can be very unpleasant, there are several ways to help manage it:
1. Eat small meals and often. This will help avoid feelings of hunger, which can aggravate morning sickness.
2. avoid smells that may cause nausea. For example, if the smell of coffee makes you nauseous, avoid it.
3. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
4. Try aromatherapy. Some scents, such as peppermint or lemon, can help with morning sickness.
5. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of taking medication for nausea.
Morning sickness is common in pregnant women and is associated with elevated hCG levels. However, there is no need to panic, as there are several things you can do to help manage it. If you have any questions or concerns about morning sickness, talk to your doctor.
