Hyperemesis

Larisa woke up feeling terrible, her stomach churning and her head pounding. She stumbled out of bed and made her way to the bathroom, where she promptly vomited. Ashley, her best friend heard her and rushed to her side, patting her back gently.

"Oh, Larisa, are you okay?" Ashley asked concern etched all over her face.

Larisa shook her head weakly, feeling dizzy and unsteady on her feet. "I don't know, Ash. This morning sickness is taking its toll on me."

Ashley looked at her with sympathy. "I'm sorry, Larisa. Is there anything I can do to help?"

Larisa smiled weakly. "Just keep patting my back. It seems to help a little."

Ashley nodded and continued to rub Larisa's back gently as she retched into the toilet. After a few minutes, Larisa slumped back against the wall, pale and trembling.

"I think I've lost a lot of weight," Larisa said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ashley looked at her in concern. "How much?"

"At least five pounds, maybe more," Larisa replied, her eyes closing in