Polyhydramnios
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| Polyhydramnios | |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Hydramnios |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Abdominal distension, shortness of breath, preterm labor |
| Complications | Preterm birth, placental abruption, fetal malposition |
| Onset | Pregnancy |
| Duration | Varies |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Diabetes mellitus, fetal anomalies, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome |
| Risks | Maternal diabetes, multiple gestation |
| Diagnosis | Ultrasound, amniotic fluid index |
| Differential diagnosis | Oligohydramnios, normal pregnancy |
| Prevention | Managing maternal diabetes, regular prenatal care |
| Treatment | Amnioreduction, indomethacin, treating underlying cause |
| Medication | Indomethacin |
| Prognosis | N/A |
| Frequency | 1% of pregnancies |
| Deaths | N/A |
Polyhydramnios is a medical condition during pregnancy characterized by an excess of amniotic fluid in the amniotic sac. It is seen in about 1% of pregnancies. It is typically diagnosed when the Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) is over 24 cm.
Causes[edit]
The exact cause of polyhydramnios is often unknown, but it can be associated with:
- Maternal diabetes
- Multiple pregnancies
- Congenital disorders
- Infections
- Problems with the fetus's nervous system, digestive system, or heart
Symptoms[edit]
Symptoms of polyhydramnios may include:
- Swelling of the feet, ankles, and legs
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain
- Premature birth
Diagnosis[edit]
Polyhydramnios is usually diagnosed during a routine ultrasound in pregnancy. Further tests may be needed to determine the cause of the condition.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment for polyhydramnios depends on the severity of the condition. It may include:
- Monitoring of the pregnancy
- Medication to reduce fluid levels
- Amniocentesis to remove excess fluid
Prognosis[edit]
The prognosis for polyhydramnios depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, it can increase the risk of preterm labor, placental abruption, and perinatal mortality.
See also[edit]
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