Red flags & when to go in person for Pregnancy Nausea (Morning Sickness) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Pregnancy nausea, often called morning sickness, is common in early pregnancy. It usually causes mild discomfort and can be managed at home. However, some symptoms may signal a more serious problem that needs in-person medical care. This guide helps you understand when to seek urgent help and when telemedicine can support you. Morning sickness typically includes nausea and occasional vomiting, but if vomiting is severe or frequent, it can lead to dehydration and weight loss. Watch for warning signs like inability to keep fluids down, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration such as dizziness or fainting. Telemedicine can provide advice on managing mild symptoms and when to seek further care. Always prioritize safety and seek emergency care if red flags appear. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Vomiting more than three times a day with inability to keep fluids down — seek emergency care immediately.
• Signs of dehydration such as dizziness, fainting, dry mouth, or dark urine — go to a healthcare facility promptly.
• Severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit, or rapid weight loss — urgent in-person evaluation needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing advice on managing mild nausea and vomiting.
• Monitoring symptoms and offering guidance on hydration and diet.
• Determining when symptoms require in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or diagnostic tests.
• Treating severe dehydration or complications.
• Managing emergency conditions like hyperemesis gravidarum.

What is Pregnancy Nausea (Morning Sickness)?

Pregnancy nausea, often called morning sickness, is a common condition during early pregnancy. It usually involves feeling sick to the stomach and sometimes vomiting. These symptoms often happen in the morning but can occur anytime during the day. Morning sickness usually starts around the 6th week of pregnancy and may improve by the 12th to 14th week.

Common Symptoms and When They Are Mild

Mild nausea and occasional vomiting are typical in early pregnancy. Many people can manage these symptoms with simple home care, like eating small meals, staying hydrated, and resting. Mild symptoms usually do not cause serious problems and improve over time.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Some symptoms may signal a more serious condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, which needs urgent medical attention. Seek in-person care if you or someone you care for experiences:

These signs require prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can provide guidance on managing mild pregnancy nausea. A healthcare provider can:

Telemedicine is convenient for follow-up and education but cannot replace physical exams or emergency care.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your telemedicine appointment, prepare the following:

This helps the provider give the best advice possible.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the care plan and advice given by your healthcare provider. If symptoms worsen or red flags appear, seek in-person care immediately. Keep track of symptoms and hydration. Schedule a follow-up appointment if recommended.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note frequency and severity of nausea and vomiting.
• List any medications, supplements, or remedies being used.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss.
• Ensure a private, quiet space with reliable internet or phone connection for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow provider's advice on diet, hydration, and symptom management.
• Watch for worsening symptoms or red flags.
• Seek in-person care if advised or if emergency signs develop.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended.

FAQs

Is morning sickness dangerous for my baby?

Mild morning sickness is common and usually does not harm the baby. However, severe vomiting that causes dehydration can be risky and needs medical attention.

Can I take medicine for nausea during pregnancy?

Some medicines are safe during pregnancy, but always check with a healthcare provider before taking any medication or supplement.

When should I go to the hospital for pregnancy nausea?

Go to the hospital if you cannot keep fluids down, feel very weak or dizzy, have severe abdominal pain, or notice blood in vomit. These are signs you need urgent care.

Can telemedicine replace all pregnancy care?

Telemedicine is helpful for advice and follow-up but cannot replace physical exams or emergency care. Some situations require in-person visits.

Sources

1. Morning Sickness — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy — Mayo Clinic.
3. Hyperemesis Gravidarum — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy: Diagnosis and Treatment — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience any red flag symptoms or have concerns about your health, seek immediate medical attention.