What lifestyle and dietary modifications can I suggest to a patient experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum to help alleviate symptoms?

Lifestyle and dietary modifications recommended for a patient experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum include:

• Encouraging rest as fatigue can worsen symptoms, and avoiding sensory stimuli such as strong odours, heat, and noise that may trigger nausea ¹.
• Eating small, frequent meals that are bland, protein-rich, and low in carbohydrate and fat to help prevent hypoglycaemia and gastric overdistension ¹.
• Consuming cold meals may be better tolerated if nausea is related to smell ¹.
• Drinking fluids little and often rather than large amounts at once to maintain hydration ¹.
• Advising against the use of ginger for hyperemesis gravidarum as evidence shows it may worsen symptoms and damage trust in healthcare professionals ¹.
• Considering acupressure (e.g., at the P6 point on the wrist) as an adjunct treatment for moderate-to-severe symptoms, although evidence is limited ¹.
• Avoiding medications that may exacerbate nausea and vomiting, such as iron-containing preparations, depending on clinical judgement ¹.

These measures aim to support symptom management in the community and may reduce the severity of symptoms before or at the onset in subsequent pregnancies ¹.