Health and Me

Ishita Roy

What This 19-Year-Old Thought Was "Freshers' Flu" Actually Turned Out To Be Meningitis

When 19-year-old Ketia Moponda set off from Wolverhampton to begin her first year at De Montfort University in Leicester, she was filled with the usual excitement of freshers’ week. But just eight days after arriving, what she thought was a simple “freshers’ flu” turned into a life-threatening battle with <span>meningococcal septicaemia</span>, as reported in the BBC. It is a rare and severe form of bacterial <span>meningitis</span>.

Within a matter of days, Ketia went from being a healthy teenager adjusting to university life to lying unconscious in hospital, fighting for survival. The illness would eventually claim both her legs below the knees and parts of her fingers, but Ketia has emerged as a determined advocate for awareness, warning other students about the risks and the importance of quick medical attention.

<h2>Mistaking Deadly Symptoms for Freshers’ Flu</h2>

Like many first-year students, Ketia brushed off her illness as something minor. “Don’t mistake everything for a common cold,” she now warns. “I made that mistake and went to sleep. It could have been fatal.”

Her memory of those final hours before being found is hazy. For 27 hours, she lay in her university accommodation, gravely ill. When worried friends and security staff finally entered her room, the scene was alarming. “As soon as they opened the door, they had to call the emergency services because it was described as looking like foul play,” she recalled. “There was blood and vomit everywhere. My body was failing.”

She was rushed to Leicester Royal Infirmary, where doctors placed her in a coma to stabilize her condition. Her family were driven under blue lights to join her, fearing the worst.

Doctors were not confident Ketia would survive. But after two days, she woke from the coma, unable to see or speak and barely aware of her surroundings. “I couldn’t see or speak and it was a whole week before I started speaking,” she said. “Most of the time I didn’t know where I was.”

The meningococcal bacteria had spread rapidly through her bloodstream, cutting off circulation to her extremities. The skin on her fingers and feet began to shrivel, swell, and turn painful. Despite antibiotics, her limbs could not be saved.

On January 7, 2025, doctors at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham amputated both of her legs below the knees, along with parts of her fingers and thumbs. “Basically my legs had died because of a lack of blood going to them,” she explained. “It was terrible. I just kept crying all the time. I felt so hurt, it was killing my spirit.”

Ketia spent five months in hospital, undergoing multiple surgeries, including skin grafts after developing a secondary flesh-eating infection. The experience was traumatic, but her determination to recover was evident. “I felt like my whole life had just begun and now I had to start all over again differently,” she said.

The road to recovery has been slow, but Ketia is now finding strength in her new reality. She has become active on TikTok, sharing her journey as a young, Black, female amputee, a representation she says is rarely visible in mainstream media. “It’s rare that you see an amputee just out there in front of your face,” she said. “Even though seeing an amputee is not normal, I want it to be a norm.”

<h2>Understanding Meningococcal Septicaemia</h2>

According to the NHS, meningococcal septicaemia is caused when meningococcal bacteria enter the bloodstream, leading to blood poisoning and, in many cases, meningitis, inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. It is less common than viral meningitis but significantly more dangerous, requiring urgent treatment with intravenous antibiotics.

Symptoms can appear similar to flu at first, including fever, headache, and nausea. But the illness can worsen very quickly, leading to confusion, vomiting, severe pain, and sometimes a distinctive rash. The NHS stresses that people should not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. If meningitis is suspected, medical help must be sought immediately.

<h2>Vaccination and Student Awareness</h2>

Many students in the UK receive the MenB vaccination during secondary school, which Ketia had also received. But the vaccine does not cover all strains of the bacteria, meaning cases still occur.

Each year, universities and health organizations urge new students to register with a local GP and familiarize themselves with the signs of meningitis. Some institutions distribute welcome packs with symptom cards to help students recognize warning signs early.

The NHS advice is clear: <strong><em>trust your instincts. If symptoms seem worse than a normal flu or cold, or if something feels unusual, seek urgent medical help.</em></strong>

<h2>Inspiring Others Through Adversity</h2>

Despite the life-altering consequences of her illness, Ketia is determined to transform her experience into a message of awareness and empowerment. She wants students to be vigilant about their health and to not dismiss symptoms too quickly.

She also hopes her story inspires people to rethink perceptions of disability. “Disability does not limit ambition, beauty, or confidence,” she said. Her presence online as a confident amputee challenges stereotypes and gives visibility to people often overlooked.

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When 19-year-old Ketia Moponda set off from Wolverhampton to begin her first year at De Montfort University in Leicester, she was filled with the usual excitement of freshers’ week. But just eight days after arriving, what she thought was a simple “freshers’ flu” turned into a life-threatening battle with meningococcal septicaemia, as reported in the BBC. It is a rare and severe form of bacterial meningitis.Within a matter of days, Ketia went from being a healthy teenager adjusting to university life to lying unconscious in hospital, fighting for survival. The illness would eventually claim both her legs below the knees and parts of her fingers, but Ketia has emerged as a determined advocate for awareness, warning other students about the risks and the importance of quick medical attention.Mistaking Deadly Symptoms for Freshers’ FluLike many first-year students, Ketia brushed off her illness as something minor. “Don’t mistake everything for a common cold,” she now warns. “I made that mistake and went to sleep. It could have been fatal.”Her memory of those final hours before being found is hazy. For 27 hours, she lay in her university accommodation, gravely ill. When worried friends and security staff finally entered her room, the scene was alarming. “As soon as they opened the door, they had to call the emergency services because it was described as looking like foul play,” she recalled. “There was blood and vomit everywhere. My body was failing.”She was rushed to Leicester Royal Infirmary, where doctors placed her in a coma to stabilize her condition. Her family were driven under blue lights to join her, fearing the worst.Defying the OddsDoctors were not confident Ketia would survive. But after two days, she woke from the coma, unable to see or speak and barely aware of her surroundings. “I couldn’t see or speak and it was a whole week before I started speaking,” she said. “Most of the time I didn’t know where I was.”The meningococcal bacteria had spread rapidly through her bloodstream, cutting off circulation to her extremities. The skin on her fingers and feet began to shrivel, swell, and turn painful. Despite antibiotics, her limbs could not be saved.On January 7, 2025, doctors at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham amputated both of her legs below the knees, along with parts of her fingers and thumbs. “Basically my legs had died because of a lack of blood going to them,” she explained. “It was terrible. I just kept crying all the time. I felt so hurt, it was killing my spirit.”A Long Recovery JourneyKetia spent five months in hospital, undergoing multiple surgeries, including skin grafts after developing a secondary flesh-eating infection. The experience was traumatic, but her determination to recover was evident. “I felt like my whole life had just begun and now I had to start all over again differently,” she said.The road to recovery has been slow, but Ketia is now finding strength in her new reality. She has become active on TikTok, sharing her journey as a young, Black, female amputee, a representation she says is rarely visible in mainstream media. “It’s rare that you see an amputee just out there in front of your face,” she said. “Even though seeing an amputee is not normal, I want it to be a norm.”Understanding Meningococcal SepticaemiaAccording to the NHS, meningococcal septicaemia is caused when meningococcal bacteria enter the bloodstream, leading to blood poisoning and, in many cases, meningitis, inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. It is less common than viral meningitis but significantly more dangerous, requiring urgent treatment with intravenous antibiotics.Symptoms can appear similar to flu at first, including fever, headache, and nausea. But the illness can worsen very quickly, leading to confusion, vomiting, severe pain, and sometimes a distinctive rash. The NHS stresses that people should not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. If meningitis is suspected, medical help must be sought immediately.Vaccination and Student AwarenessMany students in the UK receive the MenB vaccination during secondary school, which Ketia had also received. But the vaccine does not cover all strains of the bacteria, meaning cases still occur.Each year, universities and health organizations urge new students to register with a local GP and familiarize themselves with the signs of meningitis. Some institutions distribute welcome packs with symptom cards to help students recognize warning signs early.The NHS advice is clear: trust your instincts. If symptoms seem worse than a normal flu or cold, or if something feels unusual, seek urgent medical help.Inspiring Others Through AdversityDespite the life-altering consequences of her illness, Ketia is determined to transform her experience into a message of awareness and empowerment. She wants students to be vigilant about their health and to not dismiss symptoms too quickly.She also hopes her story inspires people to rethink perceptions of disability. “Disability does not limit ambition, beauty, or confidence,” she said. Her presence online as a confident amputee challenges stereotypes and gives visibility to people often overlooked.

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Did you know that among the 6.2 million Americans aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s disease, nearly two-thirds are women? This means women are almost twice as likely as men to develop the condition. While longer life expectancy partly explains the difference, research shows that hormonal changes after menopause, genetic factors, and certain lifestyle patterns also increase risk. 

As a result, understanding the early warning signs and taking preventive steps is especially important for women, who face a higher likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s as they age.

<h2>Women and Alzheimer’s: Why The Risk Is Higher</h2>

Dr. Brij Lal Choudhary, Consultant Neurologist at Manipal Hospital, Jaipur, points out that Alzheimer’s is often seen as a condition of old age, but women are disproportionately affected. Nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients are women, making it almost twice as common in women compared to men. While longer life expectancy plays a role, other factors, such as hormonal changes after menopause, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle patterns also increase risk.

<h2>Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Women Should Watch</h2>Recognising early symptoms is key, as catching them in time can make a significant difference. Common signs include:

Memory loss: Forgetting recent events, appointments, or familiar names, with lapses gradually worsening.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/chronic-insomnia-could-increase-the-risk-of-dementia-by-40-study-article-152838564" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Chronic Insomnia Could Increase The Risk Of Dementia By 40%: Study</a>

<ul><li>Difficulty managing tasks or problem-solving: Struggling with daily responsibilities, finances, or planning may indicate cognitive changes.</li><li>Confusion: Feeling disoriented over simple or familiar activities.</li><li>Mood or personality changes: Sudden anxiety, frequent irritability, or withdrawing from social life.</li><li>Language difficulties: Trouble finding the right words or expressing thoughts clearly.</li></ul><h2></h2>

Increased Risk of Alzheimer's in WomenStudies consistently show that women are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to men. For instance, a Swedish study involving 16,926 participants found that, starting around age 80, women were more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's than men of the same age. Similarly, research in Taiwan indicated that over a seven-year period, women had a higher likelihood of developing Alzheimer's compared to men. A European meta-analysis revealed that approximately 13 women out of 1,000 developed Alzheimer's each year, compared to only seven men, as per Harvard Health Publishing.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/cdc-vaccine-panel-updates-covid-19-guidelines-what-you-need-to-know-article-152860156" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">CDC Vaccine Panel Updates COVID-19 Guidelines: What You Need To Know</a>

While the longer life expectancy of women contributes to this disparity, it doesn't fully explain the difference. Even among individuals of the same age, women are more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's than men. This suggests that factors beyond longevity, such as hormonal changes, genetic predispositions, and immune system differences, may play significant roles in the increased risk for women.

How to Reduce Risk and Protect Cognitive HealthAlthough Alzheimer’s cannot be reversed, several steps can help lower risk and support brain health:

<ul><li>Regular cognitive screenings to monitor changes over time.</li><li>Mental stimulation through reading, puzzles, or learning new skills.</li><li>Physical exercise to improve blood flow and overall health.</li><li>Managing blood pressure and blood sugar to reduce vascular-related risks.</li></ul>In more severe cases, pharmacotherapy or cognitive behavioural therapy may be recommended. Awareness is particularly crucial for women, as understanding the risks and early signs empowers them to take proactive steps to protect memory and maintain quality of life.

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Did you know that among the 6.2 million Americans aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s disease, nearly two-thirds are women? This means women are almost twice as likely as men to develop the condition. While longer life expectancy partly explains the difference, research shows that hormonal changes after menopause, genetic factors, and certain lifestyle patterns also increase risk. As a result, understanding the early warning signs and taking preventive steps is especially important for women, who face a higher likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s as they age.Women and Alzheimer’s: Why The Risk Is HigherDr. Brij Lal Choudhary, Consultant Neurologist at Manipal Hospital, Jaipur, points out that Alzheimer’s is often seen as a condition of old age, but women are disproportionately affected. Nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients are women, making it almost twice as common in women compared to men. While longer life expectancy plays a role, other factors, such as hormonal changes after menopause, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle patterns also increase risk.Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Women Should WatchRecognising early symptoms is key, as catching them in time can make a significant difference. Common signs include:Memory loss: Forgetting recent events, appointments, or familiar names, with lapses gradually worsening.ALSO READ: Chronic Insomnia Could Increase The Risk Of Dementia By 40%: StudyDifficulty managing tasks or problem-solving: Struggling with daily responsibilities, finances, or planning may indicate cognitive changes.Confusion: Feeling disoriented over simple or familiar activities.Mood or personality changes: Sudden anxiety, frequent irritability, or withdrawing from social life.Language difficulties: Trouble finding the right words or expressing thoughts clearly.Increased Risk of Alzheimer's in WomenStudies consistently show that women are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to men. For instance, a Swedish study involving 16,926 participants found that, starting around age 80, women were more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's than men of the same age. Similarly, research in Taiwan indicated that over a seven-year period, women had a higher likelihood of developing Alzheimer's compared to men. A European meta-analysis revealed that approximately 13 women out of 1,000 developed Alzheimer's each year, compared to only seven men, as per Harvard Health Publishing.ALSO READ: CDC Vaccine Panel Updates COVID-19 Guidelines: What You Need To KnowWhile the longer life expectancy of women contributes to this disparity, it doesn't fully explain the difference. Even among individuals of the same age, women are more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's than men. This suggests that factors beyond longevity, such as hormonal changes, genetic predispositions, and immune system differences, may play significant roles in the increased risk for women.How to Reduce Risk and Protect Cognitive HealthAlthough Alzheimer’s cannot be reversed, several steps can help lower risk and support brain health:Regular cognitive screenings to monitor changes over time.Mental stimulation through reading, puzzles, or learning new skills.Physical exercise to improve blood flow and overall health.Managing blood pressure and blood sugar to reduce vascular-related risks.In more severe cases, pharmacotherapy or cognitive behavioural therapy may be recommended. Awareness is particularly crucial for women, as understanding the risks and early signs empowers them to take proactive steps to protect memory and maintain quality of life.

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We all experience occasional forgetfulness or feel a bit scatterbrained from time to time, often attributing it to stress, a busy lifestyle, or simply getting older. However, repeated lapses in memory, confusion, or difficulty performing everyday tasks can sometimes signal the early stages of Alzheimer’s or other forms of <span>dementia</span>. Recognising these warning signs early is crucial, as timely awareness and intervention can help manage the condition more effectively and improve quality of life. 

As we observe World Alzheimer’s Day 2025, it’s the perfect moment to learn about Alzheimer’s, understand its early indicators, and know what experts recommend paying attention to.

<h2>What Is Alzheimer’s?</h2>Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a progressive brain disorder that gradually declines memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. It affects cognitive functioning and daily behaviours to such an extent that simple tasks, like eating, dressing, or walking can become challenging over time.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/chronic-insomnia-could-increase-the-risk-of-dementia-by-40-study-article-152838564" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank"> Chronic Insomnia Could Increase The Risk Of Dementia By 40%: Study</a>

For most people, symptoms first appear in their mid-60s, according to the National Institute on Aging. Current estimates indicate that over 6 million Americans aged 65 and older may be living with Alzheimer’s. Age remains the greatest known risk factor, and with the population aging, the number of cases is expected to rise.

Stages of Alzheimer’sAlzheimer’s disease progresses gradually, with symptoms worsening over time. It is generally divided into three stages: early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe). In the early stage, memory lapses and confusion begin to interfere with daily life. During the middle stage, challenges with language, reasoning, and daily activities become more pronounced. In the late stage, individuals may lose the ability to communicate, require full-time care, and become highly dependent on others. Understanding the stages helps families and caregivers plan support and interventions more effectively.

<h2>Alzheimer’s vs Dementia</h2>While Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, the two terms are not interchangeable. Dementia is a broad term describing a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s specifically refers to a progressive brain disease marked by amyloid plaques and tau tangles, leading to memory loss and impaired thinking. Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, each with distinct causes and symptoms. Knowing the difference is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

<h2>Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s</h2>Recognising the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s can help with timely diagnosis and care. Dr. Prajwal Rao, DM Neurology, Professor and Head of the Department of Neurology at Dr. D. Y Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Center, Pimpri, Pune, explains:

<ul><li>Persistent Memory Loss: Forgetting recent conversations, events, or important dates more often than usual, affecting daily life.</li><li>Difficulty in Planning or Problem-Solving: Challenges with tasks like handling finances, following recipes, or keeping track of everyday responsibilities.</li><li>Impairment of Spatial Memory: Forgetting familiar routes or even one’s way back home.</li><li>Changes in Mood or Personality: Increased irritability, withdrawal from social activities, or unexpected anxiety and depression.</li></ul>ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/alzheimers-disease-care-5-expert-backed-tips-to-keep-your-brain-healthy-article-152856717" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank"> Alzheimer’s Disease Care: 5 Expert-Backed Tips To Keep Your Brain Healthy</a>Spotting these early signs allows families and healthcare providers to intervene sooner, offering appropriate support, treatment, and care planning to help maintain quality of life.

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We all experience occasional forgetfulness or feel a bit scatterbrained from time to time, often attributing it to stress, a busy lifestyle, or simply getting older. However, repeated lapses in memory, confusion, or difficulty performing everyday tasks can sometimes signal the early stages of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Recognising these warning signs early is crucial, as timely awareness and intervention can help manage the condition more effectively and improve quality of life. As we observe World Alzheimer’s Day 2025, it’s the perfect moment to learn about Alzheimer’s, understand its early indicators, and know what experts recommend paying attention to.What Is Alzheimer’s?Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a progressive brain disorder that gradually declines memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. It affects cognitive functioning and daily behaviours to such an extent that simple tasks, like eating, dressing, or walking can become challenging over time.ALSO READ: Chronic Insomnia Could Increase The Risk Of Dementia By 40%: StudyFor most people, symptoms first appear in their mid-60s, according to the National Institute on Aging. Current estimates indicate that over 6 million Americans aged 65 and older may be living with Alzheimer’s. Age remains the greatest known risk factor, and with the population aging, the number of cases is expected to rise.Stages of Alzheimer’sAlzheimer’s disease progresses gradually, with symptoms worsening over time. It is generally divided into three stages: early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe). In the early stage, memory lapses and confusion begin to interfere with daily life. During the middle stage, challenges with language, reasoning, and daily activities become more pronounced. In the late stage, individuals may lose the ability to communicate, require full-time care, and become highly dependent on others. Understanding the stages helps families and caregivers plan support and interventions more effectively.Alzheimer’s vs DementiaWhile Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, the two terms are not interchangeable. Dementia is a broad term describing a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s specifically refers to a progressive brain disease marked by amyloid plaques and tau tangles, leading to memory loss and impaired thinking. Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, each with distinct causes and symptoms. Knowing the difference is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’sRecognising the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s can help with timely diagnosis and care. Dr. Prajwal Rao, DM Neurology, Professor and Head of the Department of Neurology at Dr. D. Y Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Center, Pimpri, Pune, explains:Persistent Memory Loss: Forgetting recent conversations, events, or important dates more often than usual, affecting daily life.Difficulty in Planning or Problem-Solving: Challenges with tasks like handling finances, following recipes, or keeping track of everyday responsibilities.Impairment of Spatial Memory: Forgetting familiar routes or even one’s way back home.Changes in Mood or Personality: Increased irritability, withdrawal from social activities, or unexpected anxiety and depression.ALSO READ: Alzheimer’s Disease Care: 5 Expert-Backed Tips To Keep Your Brain HealthySpotting these early signs allows families and healthcare providers to intervene sooner, offering appropriate support, treatment, and care planning to help maintain quality of life.

Severe Pregnancy Nausea Could Impact Mental Health, Research Shows

Severe Pregnancy Nausea Could Impact Mental Health

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<span>Morning sickness</span> is often treated as just an unpleasant part of early <span>pregnancy</span>, but for some women, the nausea and vomiting can be severe and relentless. A recent study suggests that this extreme form of morning sickness, known as <span>hyperemesis gravidarum</span>, may also affect mental health. Women experiencing it are at a higher risk of anxiety, depression, and stress-related challenges, making it important to recognise the emotional impact alongside the physical symptoms. 

<h2>Severe Morning Sickness and Mental Health: What the Study Found</h2>

A large study conducted by researchers from King’s College London and the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust examined the mental health impact of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a severe form of morning sickness. The study analyzed data from 476,857 pregnant women across 135 healthcare providers worldwide using the TriNetX Global Collaborative Network, which collects anonymized electronic health records from 18 countries. This research is the first to explore a broad range of neuropsychiatric outcomes in women with HG.

HG affects up to 3.6% of pregnancies and is the leading cause of hospitalization during the first trimester. Women with HG experience persistent, severe nausea and vomiting, often resulting in dehydration, weight loss, and malnutrition. The condition can cause anxiety, isolation, and uncertainty about coping with pregnancy. In severe cases, women have reported considering termination of pregnancy due to the physical and emotional toll.

Maternal risk factors include biological issues such as thyroid disorders, Type 1 diabetes, and past pregnancy complications, as well as socioeconomic and ethnic factors. Research also points to sensitivity to the hormone GDF-15 as a potential driver.

<h2>The Link Between Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Mental Health</h2>

The study looked at 24 neuropsychiatric and mental health outcomes within a year of HG diagnosis. Findings included:

<ul><li>50% increased risk in 13 conditions, including postpartum psychosis and PTSD.</li><li>Doubled risk for Wernicke’s encephalopathy, refeeding syndrome, eating disorders, and depression.</li><li>Postpartum depression was 2.7 times more likely among women with HG.</li></ul>ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/parenting/fact-check-is-giving-birth-on-your-back-against-your-bodys-natural-anatomy-article-152804992" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank"> Fact Check: Is Giving Birth On Your Back Against Your Body's Natural Anatomy?</a><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/parenting/fact-check-is-giving-birth-on-your-back-against-your-bodys-natural-anatomy-article-152804992"></a>Dr. Hamilton Morrin, a doctoral fellow at King’s, explained that while HG’s physical severity is often measured by metabolic disturbance, this does not always predict mental health impact. Even women with “mild” HG can experience significant psychiatric issues, emphasizing the need for mental health screening for all HG patients.

Dr. Thomas Pollak, consultant neuropsychiatrist and senior author, noted that there has historically been a disconnect between how doctors view HG and how women experience it. The study shows that HG can be linked to severe psychiatric disorders, which require early recognition and coordinated physical and mental healthcare from the start of pregnancy.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/us-health-officials-to-examine-covid-vaccine-effects-in-pregnant-women-and-kids-article-152844905" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">US Health Officials To Examine Covid Vaccine Effects In Pregnant Women And Kids</a>

This research highlights that mental health support is crucial, even if HG seems physically mild, and that women with HG should have access to integrated care to ensure their wellbeing and safety for both mother and child.

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can pregnancy cause mental illness

does pregnancy cause mental illness

Morning sickness is often treated as just an unpleasant part of early pregnancy, but for some women, the nausea and vomiting can be severe and relentless. A recent study suggests that this extreme form of morning sickness, known as hyperemesis gravidarum, may also affect mental health. Women experiencing it are at a higher risk of anxiety, depression, and stress-related challenges, making it important to recognise the emotional impact alongside the physical symptoms. Severe Morning Sickness and Mental Health: What the Study FoundA large study conducted by researchers from King’s College London and the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust examined the mental health impact of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a severe form of morning sickness. The study analyzed data from 476,857 pregnant women across 135 healthcare providers worldwide using the TriNetX Global Collaborative Network, which collects anonymized electronic health records from 18 countries. This research is the first to explore a broad range of neuropsychiatric outcomes in women with HG.What Is Hyperemesis Gravidarum?HG affects up to 3.6% of pregnancies and is the leading cause of hospitalization during the first trimester. Women with HG experience persistent, severe nausea and vomiting, often resulting in dehydration, weight loss, and malnutrition. The condition can cause anxiety, isolation, and uncertainty about coping with pregnancy. In severe cases, women have reported considering termination of pregnancy due to the physical and emotional toll.Maternal risk factors include biological issues such as thyroid disorders, Type 1 diabetes, and past pregnancy complications, as well as socioeconomic and ethnic factors. Research also points to sensitivity to the hormone GDF-15 as a potential driver.The Link Between Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Mental HealthThe study looked at 24 neuropsychiatric and mental health outcomes within a year of HG diagnosis. Findings included:50% increased risk in 13 conditions, including postpartum psychosis and PTSD.Doubled risk for Wernicke’s encephalopathy, refeeding syndrome, eating disorders, and depression.Postpartum depression was 2.7 times more likely among women with HG.ALSO READ: Fact Check: Is Giving Birth On Your Back Against Your Body's Natural Anatomy?Dr. Hamilton Morrin, a doctoral fellow at King’s, explained that while HG’s physical severity is often measured by metabolic disturbance, this does not always predict mental health impact. Even women with “mild” HG can experience significant psychiatric issues, emphasizing the need for mental health screening for all HG patients.Why Integrated Care MattersDr. Thomas Pollak, consultant neuropsychiatrist and senior author, noted that there has historically been a disconnect between how doctors view HG and how women experience it. The study shows that HG can be linked to severe psychiatric disorders, which require early recognition and coordinated physical and mental healthcare from the start of pregnancy.ALSO READ: US Health Officials To Examine Covid Vaccine Effects In Pregnant Women And KidsThis research highlights that mental health support is crucial, even if HG seems physically mild, and that women with HG should have access to integrated care to ensure their wellbeing and safety for both mother and child.

severe pregnancy nausea could impact mental health, research shows

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