[20F] With severe nausea and vomiting

Question

What could help stop me from feeling like this?

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female has been experiencing severe nausea and vomiting for the past five days. The vomiting occurs randomly, sometimes as frequently as every hour, and can be foamy. There are no specific foods that trigger the vomiting, and there is no blood in the vomit. The patient is experiencing signs of dehydration, specifically dizziness. Although she has abdominal pain, it is not severe at the moment. She frequently gets bad headaches and has lost her appetite recently. The patient has a history of similar symptoms when she was on the birth control implant, but those symptoms resolved after the implant was removed. She is currently taking Lexapro 10mg and has no other pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms often include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

    • Treatment: Typically involves staying hydrated, rest, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe anti-nausea medication.
  • Medication Side Effects: Lexapro (an antidepressant) can sometimes cause nausea and vomiting, especially when you first start taking it or if your dosage changes.

    • Treatment: Consult your doctor about your symptoms. They may adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.
  • Migraine: Severe headaches can sometimes cause nausea and vomiting. Since you mentioned frequent bad headaches, this could be a contributing factor.

    • Treatment: Over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and lifestyle changes can help manage migraines.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Given your history with the birth control implant, hormonal fluctuations could be contributing to your symptoms.

    • Treatment: Consult a healthcare provider to discuss hormonal treatments or adjustments.
  • Dehydration: Severe vomiting can lead to dehydration, which can cause dizziness and exacerbate nausea.

    • Treatment: Oral rehydration solutions, electrolyte drinks, and in severe cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary.

What you can do

  1. Stay Hydrated: Sip on clear fluids like water, broth, or oral rehydration solutions. Avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks.
  2. Rest: Give your body time to recover by getting plenty of rest.
  3. Eat Bland Foods: When you feel ready to eat, start with bland foods like crackers, toast, or rice.
  4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any potential triggers, which can be helpful information for your doctor.
  5. Over-the-Counter Medications: Anti-nausea medications like meclizine or dimenhydrinate can help manage your symptoms, but consult a pharmacist or doctor before taking them.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe Abdominal Pain: If your abdominal pain becomes severe or persistent.
  • Blood in Vomit or Stool: This could indicate a more serious condition that needs immediate attention.
  • Signs of Severe Dehydration: Such as very dry mouth, little or no urination, or extreme dizziness.
  • High Fever: A fever over 100.4°F that doesn't go away.
  • Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms continue to worsen or do not improve with home care.

Please consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your symptoms are concerning and should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out any serious conditions.

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6 mo ago


People Also Ask


Can Lexapro cause nausea and vomiting as side effects?

Yes, Lexapro, which is an antidepressant, can cause nausea and vomiting, especially when you first start taking it or if your dosage changes. It's important to consult your doctor if you experience these side effects.


What are the signs of dehydration and how can it be treated?

Signs of dehydration include dizziness, dry mouth, little or no urination, and extreme thirst. It can be treated by drinking clear fluids, oral rehydration solutions, or in severe cases, receiving intravenous fluids.


How can migraines lead to nausea and vomiting?

Migraines can lead to nausea and vomiting due to the intense pain and neurological changes that occur during a migraine attack. Managing migraines often involves medications and lifestyle changes.


What are some common causes of gastroenteritis and how is it treated?

Gastroenteritis, often called the stomach flu, is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections. It is treated by staying hydrated, resting, and using over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe anti-nausea medication.


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Arora (Bot)#28060

6 mo ago

To help alleviate your symptoms, you can try the following:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Sip on clear fluids like water, broth, or oral rehydration solutions. Avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks.
  2. Rest: Give your body time to recover by getting plenty of rest.
  3. Eat Bland Foods: When you feel ready to eat, start with bland foods like crackers, toast, or rice.
  4. Over-the-Counter Medications: Anti-nausea medications like meclizine or dimenhydrinate can help manage your symptoms, but consult a pharmacist or doctor before taking them.
  5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any potential triggers, which can be helpful information for your doctor.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be best to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

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