[36F] Experiencing severe gastrointestinal symptoms

Patient Description

A 36-year-old female is experiencing severe nausea, projectile and frequent vomiting, particularly after eating, and chronic diarrhea described as fatty and floating. The patient reports that the symptoms have been occurring for a few hours today, with the stomach pain being chronic and present for over a year. The pain is described as cramping, with a severity of 8 out of 10, and is located on the right side of the abdomen. Accompanying symptoms include full body sweats, chills, and a low-grade fever of 99.9°F that subsides after vomiting. The patient finds some relief from nausea by lying down in cold air and applying cold rags. The patient has not traveled recently and has not had a Covid test since the onset of the fever. There is no blood or bile in the vomit, and the stool is bright yellow-green in color.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've provided, there are several possibilities:

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, typically caused by a viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. The bright green fluid in your vomit and the color of your stool could be due to bile, which can be present when the stomach is empty or if there is a blockage in the bile ducts.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. If symptoms persist or worsen, medical attention is necessary.

  • Gallbladder Disease: Your gallbladder stores bile, a substance needed to digest fats. Stones or inflammation can cause gallbladder disease. Symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel movements. The pain is typically worse after eating, especially fatty or greasy foods.

    • Treatment can range from dietary changes to medications to surgery, depending on the severity and cause.

  • 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 nausea, vomiting, and heartburn.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these don't help, prescription medications or surgery might be an option.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've provided and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost through vomiting and diarrhea. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can dehydrate you.
  2. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus. Getting enough sleep can help you recover.
  3. Eat Light: If you can eat without vomiting, eat small amounts of bland foods like rice, applesauce, or crackers.
  4. Over-the-Counter Medication: Over-the-counter medication can help control your symptoms and make you more comfortable.

What you should look out for

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 not urinating, dry mouth and throat, or feeling dizzy when standing up
  • A fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher
  • If your symptoms persist for more than a few days

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

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People Also Ask

What are the common causes of severe nausea and vomiting after eating?

Severe nausea and vomiting after eating can be caused by various conditions, including gastroenteritis, gallbladder disease, food poisoning, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It's important to consider other symptoms and consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What does it mean if my stool is bright yellow-green and floating?

Bright yellow-green, floating stool can indicate the presence of undigested fat, which may be due to malabsorption issues or a lack of bile reaching the intestines. This can occur in conditions like gallbladder disease or certain infections. Consulting a doctor is recommended for proper evaluation.

How can I differentiate between gastroenteritis and gallbladder disease?

Gastroenteritis often presents with symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain, usually due to an infection. Gallbladder disease typically involves severe abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty foods, and may include nausea and vomiting. A healthcare professional can perform tests to differentiate between the two.

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

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience blood in your vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration (such as not urinating, dry mouth, or dizziness), or a high fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher. Persistent symptoms for more than a few days also warrant medical evaluation.

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