Polyhydramnios
Polyhydramnios (pronunciation: pol-ee-hi-dram-nee-os) is a medical condition during pregnancy characterized by an excessive amount of amniotic fluid in the amniotic sac.
Etymology
The term "Polyhydramnios" is derived from the Greek words "poly" meaning many, "hydra" meaning water, and "amnios" referring to the amniotic sac.
Definition
Polyhydramnios is a condition that occurs when there is an excess of amniotic fluid - the fluid that surrounds and protects a baby during pregnancy - within the amniotic sac. This condition can lead to complications during pregnancy and delivery.
Causes
Polyhydramnios can be caused by a variety of factors, including gestational diabetes, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, and certain congenital anomalies of the fetus such as esophageal atresia and anencephaly. In many cases, however, the cause of polyhydramnios is unknown.
Symptoms
Symptoms of polyhydramnios may include abdominal pain, shortness of breath, swelling in the legs and feet, and a larger-than-normal uterus for the stage of pregnancy.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of polyhydramnios is typically made through an ultrasound examination, which can measure the amount of amniotic fluid in the amniotic sac.
Treatment
Treatment for polyhydramnios may include amnioreduction, a procedure to remove excess amniotic fluid, medications to reduce fluid production, or early delivery if the condition is severe.
Related Terms
- Amniotic fluid
- Amniotic sac
- Gestational diabetes
- Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome
- Esophageal atresia
- Anencephaly
- Ultrasound
- Amnioreduction
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Polyhydramnios
- Wikipedia's article - Polyhydramnios
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