[20F] Experiencing nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female has been experiencing nausea for three days, often feeling like her food won't digest completely. The nausea is exacerbated by smoking, walking, heat, and consuming certain foods, and is sometimes relieved by lying down, though this can also worsen the symptoms. She reports persistent vomiting without blood and slight diarrhea. Two days ago, she experienced abdominal cramps accompanied by sweating and dizziness. She has a history of kidney cysts diagnosed at age 5 and is allergic to amoxicillin. She is not currently on any medications but has been using marijuana and nicotine. No other significant medical history was reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible causes for your symptoms:

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasites. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be necessary if the cause is bacterial.
  • Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be caused by various factors, including long-term use of NSAIDs, infection with Helicobacter pylori, or autoimmune disorders.

    • Treatment often involves antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors.
  • Gastroparesis: This is a condition where the stomach can't empty itself of food in a normal fashion. It can be caused by damage to the vagus nerve, which regulates the digestive system.

    • Treatment often involves dietary changes, medication, and in severe cases, surgery.
  • Substance-induced nausea and vomiting: Both nicotine and marijuana can cause nausea and vomiting.

    • The best treatment is to stop using these substances.

Please remember that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some general suggestions that might help alleviate your symptoms:

  1. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can worsen nausea. Try to sip small amounts of water or suck on ice chips if you're having trouble keeping fluids down.

  2. Eat small, bland meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals can sometimes help with nausea and vomiting. Avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar.

  3. Avoid triggers: If you notice that certain foods or activities make your nausea worse, try to avoid them.

  4. Rest: Resting after eating and keeping your head elevated can sometimes help with symptoms of gastroparesis.

  5. Stop using substances: If possible, try to stop using nicotine and marijuana to see if your symptoms improve.

What you should look out for

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

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your vomit or stool
  • Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urination
  • Symptoms that persist for more than a few days or worsen over time

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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8 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of nausea and vomiting?

Common causes of nausea and vomiting include infections like gastroenteritis, gastritis, gastroparesis, food poisoning, pregnancy, and reactions to medications or substances like nicotine and marijuana.


How can I differentiate between gastroenteritis and gastritis?

Gastroenteritis typically involves symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps, often due to an infection. Gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, and can be caused by factors like NSAIDs or H. pylori infection.


Can smoking and marijuana use contribute to nausea?

Yes, both smoking and marijuana use can contribute to nausea and vomiting. Nicotine can irritate the stomach lining, and marijuana can affect the digestive system, leading to these symptoms.


What are the signs that I should seek immediate medical attention for my symptoms?

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in your vomit or stool, signs of dehydration such as dizziness or dry mouth, or if your symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen over time.


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