How is hyperemesis gravidarum diagnosed?

Hyperemesis gravidarum is diagnosed primarily based on the presentation of severe nausea and vomiting that leads to significant dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and weight loss during pregnancy. This condition is more than typical morning sickness; it often results in the inability to keep food or fluids down, causing serious health implications for both the mother and fetus.

The weight loss of more than 5% of pre-pregnancy body weight, in conjunction with clinical signs of dehydration (such as dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and possibly tachycardia), supports the diagnosis. It's essential to rule out other causes of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and to assess the severity of the symptoms to confirm the diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum.

Other options outlined do not specifically address the hallmark symptoms and clinical criteria necessary for making a diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum. For instance, heightened blood pressure and proteinuria are indicative of conditions such as preeclampsia, while frequent headaches and abdominal pain are more nonspecific symptoms that do not directly correlate with the severe nausea and vomiting characteristic of this condition. Similarly, raised liver enzymes and hyperbilirubinemia indicate liver dysfunction or other hepatic issues which are not diagnostic indicators for hyperemesis gravidar