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You’ve probably heard all about morning sickness and swollen ankles, but there are other odd, but common ailments of which you may not be aware.
- Gestational Diabetes – According to the CDC, 2% to 10% of pregnant people suffer from gestational diabetes annually. This is because hormonal changes during pregnancy sometimes cause insulin resistance. Many women are asymptomatic, but your doctor will probably check your blood sugar between 24 to 28 weeks. While the condition subsides for many women, you might not know that half of those with gestational diabetes develop type 2 diabetes.
- Hyperemesis Gravidarum – It’s common for pregnant women to experience nausea or food aversions, but the condition is much more severe. Hyperemesis gravidarum resembles morning sickness, but nausea and vomiting are so intense it can lead to weight loss and electrolyte imbalance. Pregnant people with the condition may need to stay overnight in the hospital to receive intravenous fluids. Signs that you may be experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum include:
- confusion or fainting
- headaches
- jaundice
- low blood pressure
- nausea that doesn’t subside after 12 weeks
- rapid heart rate
- severe dehydration
- severe vomiting
- Preeclampsia – According to the Preeclampsia Foundation, the condition is classified as persistently high blood pressure during pregnancy (but can also happen postpartum). Preeclampsia usually begins around 20 weeks and subsides after birth, but it’s vital to receive treatment. Untreated, preeclampsia can cause severe, possibly fatal complications for you and your baby. Symptoms include:
- abdominal pain
- confusion
- headaches
- heightened anxiety
- nausea or vomiting
- sensitivity to light/auras (like with migraines)
- shortness of breath
- Skin Tags – Skin tags are tiny, skin-colored growths that tend to appear on the underside of your arms, beneath your breasts or on your neck. These are more annoying than indicative of a health problem and generally subside after delivery. If yours hang around or are bothersome, talk to your dermatologist about removal.
- Taste Changes – Hormone fluctuations can lead to an altered sense of taste called dysgeusia. Some women describe it as a metallic taste, while others complain of bitter or sour flavors. To help, eat a few dry crackers before meals or chew flavored gum (if you have morning sickness, try mint). Spicy foods can also help because of the numbing effect brought about by the capsaicin in peppers.
- Varicose Veins – During pregnancy, your body produces more progesterone than usual and your blood volume increases. These changes can cause your veins to widen and can lead to varicose veins or spider veins. Ease the pain of varicose veins by exercising regularly, wearing compression socks or elevating your legs.
