This can affect women who are taking injectable hormone medications to stimulate the development of eggs in the ovaries. This is the condition presenting enlarged ovaries and the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. A small number of women can develop a severe form of this condition presenting symptoms such as weight gain, vomiting, shortness of breath and abdominal pain. In some case, it can also develop spontaneously and not associated with the fertility treatments.
Causes
The exact cause of this condition is not known although it is associated with the high level of HCG hormone in the body that can occur during pregnancy. The ovarian blood vessels can react abnormally to this hormone and can cause the associated symptoms. During the fertility treatment, the HCG hormone may be given to help the follicle release the egg. Some of the risk factors that can also help develop this syndrome include polycystic ovary syndrome, having a large number of follicles, being under the age of 30, previous episodes of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and having low body weight.
Symptoms
The symptoms can usually begin within 10 days after receiving the treatment to stimulate ovulation. The symptoms of the condition can range from mild to severe that can also deteriorate with time. Mild to moderate symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, abdominal bloating, tender feeling in the area of the ovaries and sudden increase of weight. The mild to moderate form of the condition can develop because of the ovaries that are larger than normal, the high levels of estrogen and progesterone in the bloodstream and fluid collection causing severe bloating. The severe form of the condition can present rapid weight gain, blood clots in legs, decreased urination, severe nausea and vomiting, severe abdominal pain, enlarged abdomen and shortness of breath. The severe form can occur because of the extremely large ovaries, fluid accumulation in the lungs or the abdominal cavity and the risk of abnormal blood clotting. It is important to discuss the symptoms with the physician if the affected individual is receiving fertility treatments as this can be an indication of an urgent situation requiring prompt medical treatment.
Diagnosis
If the condition deteriorates, a thorough evaluation may be required that includes a physical examination, an ultrasound to determine the size of the ovaries and to assess the free fluid. In addition, the blood analysis can include CBC, electrolytes and creatinine. Additional diagnosis can consist of tests to measure the urine output, chest x-ray and a liver function test.
Treatment
The mild cases usually do not require any treatment however certain steps can help relieve the discomfort. This can include getting plenty of rest, keeping well hydrated, avoiding alcohol or caffeinated beverages, avoiding sexual activity and intense exercise. The severe case requires hospitalization to remove the fluids that have accumulated in the body and to monitor the condition.
References
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007294.htm
http://www.advancedfertility.com/ovarian-hyperstimulation.htm
