[19F] Experiencing vomiting, gagging, and respiratory symptoms

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female has been experiencing recurrent vomiting every few hours for the past 3 days, sometimes consisting of bright yellow to green liquid with very little food content. The patient also reports frequent gagging, occurring almost hourly, which is exacerbated by coughing and is not relieved by any measures yet. Additionally, the patient is experiencing sinus irritation, a stiff neck, and shortness of breath. No specific food triggers have been identified for the vomiting, and no relief measures have been effective for the gagging.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, possible diagnoses include:

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The bright green or yellow vomit you're experiencing could be bile, which is often present when the stomach is empty.

    • Treatment for gastroenteritis usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medication to manage symptoms. Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is suspected.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause symptoms like vomiting and gagging.

    • Treatment for GERD usually involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. Prescription medications or even surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can cause vomiting, especially of clear or yellowish stomach acid, and a feeling of fullness in your upper abdomen after eating.

    • Treatment for gastritis usually involves taking medication to decrease stomach acid. If gastritis is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be necessary.

Please remember that these are possible diagnoses and you should seek care from a health professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

In the meantime, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

  1. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can make your symptoms worse. Try to sip small amounts of water or suck on ice chips if you're having trouble keeping fluids down.
  2. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off an infection. Getting plenty of rest can help.
  3. Avoid foods that make your symptoms worse: While you haven't identified any specific triggers, it may be helpful to avoid spicy, fatty, or fried foods, as these can sometimes make nausea and vomiting worse.
  4. Over-the-counter medication: There are over-the-counter medications available that can help manage nausea and vomiting. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult with a pharmacist if you have any questions.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Blood in your vomit or stool
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, feeling extremely thirsty, or producing very little urine
  • Your symptoms become significantly worse or do not improve after a few days
  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.

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1 yr ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines

People Also Ask


What could cause recurrent vomiting with bright yellow or green liquid?

Recurrent vomiting with bright yellow or green liquid could be due to bile, which is often present when the stomach is empty. Possible causes include gastroenteritis, GERD, or gastritis.


How can I manage symptoms of gastroenteritis at home?

To manage symptoms of gastroenteritis at home, stay hydrated by sipping water or sucking on ice chips, get plenty of rest, avoid foods that worsen symptoms, and consider over-the-counter medications for nausea and vomiting.


What are the common symptoms of GERD and how is it treated?

Common symptoms of GERD include acid reflux, vomiting, and gagging. Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, and in severe cases, prescription medications or surgery.


When should I seek medical attention for vomiting and gagging?

Seek medical attention if you experience blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration, worsening symptoms, or difficulty breathing or chest pain.


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