Beyond Morning Sickness: Marlena Fejzo’s Fight to Illuminate and Treat Hyperemesis Gravidarum

“`html

Severe Nausea in Pregnancy: A Condition Often Dismissed, New Research Reveals

A groundbreaking study is shedding light on hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, which affects approximately two percent of expectant mothers. For years, this debilitating condition has been underestimated and often mistaken for typical “morning sickness,” leaving sufferers feeling invalidated and at risk. The ongoing research has the potential to substantially improve treatments and raise awareness of this dangerous pregnancy pathology.

the Dev

What is hyperemesis gravidarum and how does it differ from normal morning sickness?

Beyond Morning Sickness: Marlena Fejzo’s Fight to Illuminate and Treat Hyperemesis Gravidarum

Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is far more than the “morning sickness” frequently enough romanticized in popular culture. It’s a debilitating condition affecting approximately 0.3-3% of pregnancies, characterized by severe nausea and vomiting leading to dehydration, weight loss, and electrolyte imbalances. For decades, HG was often dismissed as an unavoidable part of pregnancy, leaving sufferers feeling isolated and unsupported. This began to change thanks to the tireless advocacy of Marlena Fejzo, a woman whose personal struggle with HG ignited a global movement for research, recognition, and improved treatment.

The Personal Toll of HG: Marlena’s Story

Marlena Fejzo experienced HG during all three of her pregnancies.Unlike typical morning sickness, her symptoms were relentless and severe.She endured constant nausea, intractable vomiting, and meaningful weight loss. Existing treatments offered minimal relief, and she faced skepticism from healthcare providers who often minimized her suffering.

This personal battle fueled her determination to understand the condition better. Frustrated by the lack of research and effective treatments, she began meticulously documenting her experiences and connecting with other women suffering from HG online. This led to the creation of the HER Foundation (Hyperemesis Education and Research), now a leading global resource for HG awareness and support.

Establishing the HER Foundation: A Turning Point

Founded in 2007, the HER Foundation quickly became a vital lifeline for women with HG. Marlena’s vision was to:

* Provide Support: create a safe and supportive community where women could share their experiences and find understanding.

* Raise Awareness: Educate healthcare professionals and the public about the severity of HG.

* Fund Research: Drive scientific investigation into the causes, prevention, and treatment of HG.

The foundation’s early work focused on collecting patient data, a crucial step in validating HG as a distinct medical condition. Prior to this, the lack of standardized data made it difficult to secure research funding and advocate for improved care.

The Science Behind HG: Unraveling the Mystery

For years, the exact cause of HG remained elusive. Customary theories focused on hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly elevated levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). However, research supported by the HER Foundation has revealed a more complex picture.

Current research suggests a combination of factors may contribute to HG, including:

* Genetic Predisposition: Studies indicate a higher incidence of HG in women with a family history of the condition.

* Hormonal Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations, particularly those involving hCG, estrogen, and progesterone.

* Gastrointestinal Motility: Abnormalities in the digestive system that affect the rate at which food moves through the stomach and intestines.

* Neurological Factors: Emerging evidence suggests a role for the nervous system and specific brain regions involved in nausea and vomiting.

* Psychological Factors: While HG is not caused by psychological factors,pre-existing anxiety or depression can exacerbate symptoms.

Advancements in Treatment: From Supportive Care to Targeted Therapies

Historically, HG treatment focused primarily on supportive care, aimed at managing symptoms and preventing complications. This included:

1. Intravenous (IV) Fluids: To combat dehydration.
2. Anti-Emetic Medications: To reduce nausea and vomiting. Historically, options were limited, but newer medications are becoming available.
3. Vitamin B6 Supplementation: Often recommended as a first-line treatment.
4. Dietary Modifications: Small, frequent meals and avoiding trigger foods.

However,the HER Foundation’s advocacy and research funding have paved the way for more targeted therapies. These include:

* Diclegis (doxylamine succinate/pyridoxine hydrochloride): A combination medication specifically approved by the FDA for the treatment of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, including HG.

* Corticosteroids: Used in severe cases to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.

* Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN): Providing nutrients directly into the bloodstream when oral intake is impractical.

The Impact of Patient-Led research

Marlena Fejzo’s story highlights the power of patient-led research. By actively engaging patients in the research process, the HER Foundation has been able to:

* Identify Research Priorities: Focus on areas most important to those living with HG.

* Recruit Participants: Build a network of willing participants for clinical trials.

* Disseminate Findings: Share research results with the HG community and healthcare professionals.

This collaborative approach has accelerated the pace of discovery and led to significant improvements in HG care.The HER Foundation continues to fund research projects exploring novel treatments, including potential pharmacological interventions and non-pharmacological approaches like acupuncture and ginger therapy.

Resources and Support for Women with HG

If you or someone you know is experiencing HG, remember you are not alone. Here are some valuable resources:

* HER Foundation: https://www.hyperemesis.org/

* Pregnancy and Hyperemesis Support (PHS): [https://www.pregnancysupport.org/](https://www