[18F] With chronic vomiting, hematemesis, and tachycardia

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible conditions that could explain your symptoms:

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Vomiting dried blood (which can appear dark or like coffee grounds) suggests that there might be bleeding in your upper gastrointestinal tract. This could be due to conditions such as peptic ulcers, gastritis, or esophageal varices.

  • Testing and Treatment: An endoscopy is often performed to identify the source of bleeding. Treatment may involve medications to reduce stomach acid, antibiotics if an infection is present, or procedures to stop the bleeding.

• Chronic Vomiting: Chronic vomiting can have various causes, including gastrointestinal disorders (like gastroparesis or cyclic vomiting syndrome), metabolic conditions, or even side effects from medications.

  • Testing and Treatment: A comprehensive evaluation including blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly a referral to a gastroenterologist may be necessary. Treatment would depend on the underlying cause but could involve dietary changes, medications, or other interventions.

• Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): Given your high heart rate upon standing, POTS is a condition where the heart rate increases significantly upon standing, often accompanied by symptoms like lightheadedness and fainting.

  • Testing and Treatment: A tilt-table test is commonly used to diagnose POTS. Treatment may include increasing fluid and salt intake, wearing compression stockings, and medications to manage heart rate and blood pressure.

What you can do

While waiting to see a healthcare provider, here are some steps you can take:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially electrolyte solutions, to help manage dehydration from vomiting.
2. Small, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals may help reduce vomiting episodes.
3. Elevate Your Head: When lying down, keep your head elevated to help reduce acid reflux and vomiting.
4. Monitor Your Heart Rate: Keep a log of your heart rate and symptoms, noting when they occur and any potential triggers. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Abdominal Pain: This could indicate a serious underlying condition that needs urgent attention.
• Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: If your vomiting or heart rate issues worsen or do not improve, see a healthcare provider.
• Signs of Severe Dehydration: Such as very dry mouth, little or no urination, or feeling extremely weak or dizzy.
• Blood in Stool or Vomit: Any noticeable blood in your stool or continued vomiting of blood should be evaluated urgently.

Important Reminder

Please consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a medical provider to ensure you receive the care you need.