Nausea and Vomiting Health Article

Definition

Nausea is the sensation of being about to vomit. Vomiting, or emesis, is the expelling of undigested food through the mouth.

Description

Nausea is a reaction to a number of causes that include overeating, infection, or irritation of the throat or stomach lining. Persistent or recurrent nausea and vomiting should be checked by a doctor.

A doctor should be called if nausea and vomiting occur:

• after eating rich or spoiled food or taking a new medication
• repeatedly or for 48 hours or longer
• following intense dizziness

It is important to see a doctor if nausea and vomiting are accompanied by:

• yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• pain in the chest or lower abdomen
• trouble with swallowing or urination
• dehydration or extreme thirst
• drowsiness or confusion
• constant, severe abdominal pain

• a fruity breath odor.

A doctor should be notified if vomiting is heavy and/or bloody, if the vomitus looks like feces, or if the patient has been unable to keep food down for 24 hours.

An ambulance or emergency response number should be called immediately if:

• diabetic shock is suspected
• nausea and vomiting continue after other symptoms of viral infection have subsided
• the patient has a severe headach.
• the patient is sweating and having chest pain and trouble breathing
• nausea, vomiting, and breathing problems occur after exposure to a known allergen.

Causes and symptoms

Persistent, unexplained, or recurring nausea and vomiting can be symptoms of a variety of serious illnesses. It can be caused by simply over-eating or drinking too much alcohol. It can be due to stress, medication, or illness. Morning sickness is a consequence of pregnancy-related hormone changes. Motion sickness can be induced by traveling in a vehicle, plane, or on a boat. Many patients experience nausea after eating spoiled food or foods to which they are allergic. Patients who suffer migraine headache often experience nausea. Cancer patients on chemotherapy are nauseated. Gallstones, gastroenteritis and stomach ulcer may cause nausea and vomiting. These symptoms should be evaluated by a physician.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on the severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms, and other factors that could indicate the presence of a serious illness.