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Morning Sickness
WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Morning sickness--the nausea and vomiting of
pregnancy--is especially common the first half of pregnancy.
Most pregnant women have some morning sickness. Although
unpleasant, it is usually not serious. By the second half of
pregnancy, it typically clears up.
Causes
Experts are unsure of the reason
for morning sickness. Changes in your hormones and blood sugar
may cause it. Stress and nerves can make the problem
worse.
Signs/Symptoms
Excessive vomiting can cause
dehydration. Dizziness, reduced urination, dry mouth, and
cracked lips are signs of dehydration.
Care
Eating small, frequent meals will
help ease nausea. Avoid greasy foods, alcohol, and caffeine
drinks. Eating soda crackers or dry toast may help. Try to get
plenty of rest.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
Keep soda crackers by your bed. Eat a few of them or
a slice of bread before you get up. Get out of bed slowly.
Sudden movements could cause you to get dizzy and
nauseated.
-
Eat small amounts of food high in protein, such as
cheese or peanut butter. Stay away from greasy, fried, or
spicy foods. Try to eat every 2 to 3 hours even if you are
not hungry. Sit straight up after eating. This will keep
food from backing up and making you
nauseous.
-
Have a snack such as yogurt, milk, bread, dry cereal,
or a small sandwich before going to bed. Try eating during
the night. This may prevent nausea in the
morning.
-
Drink 8 to 10 glasses (soda-can sized) of liquid each
day. Clear broths, fruit juices, and water are the best
choices. You may enjoy herbal teas such as spearmint,
peppermint, or chamomile. Drink them slowly and between
meals. This will keep you from eating large amounts during
meals, which can be a cause of
nausea.
-
The smell of some foods may make you feel sick. Stay
away from these foods.
-
Do not brush your teeth right after eating as this
can cause nausea.
-
Keep your feet up and your head slightly raised on a
pillow when resting.
-
Getting fresh air may help you feel better. Take a
short walk or try to sleep with the window open. When you
are cooking, open windows to get rid of
odors.
-
Don't smoke cigarettes. Ask other people not to smoke
around you.
-
Do not take medicine or try home remedies without
asking your doctor.
Call Your Doctor Immediately
If...
-
None of the above ideas
help.
-
You are vomiting more than 3 or 4 times
daily.
-
You are loosing weight.
-
You are vomiting blood or liquid that looks like
coffee grounds.
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