[38F] Experiencing severe nausea, vomiting, and weight loss

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Exacerbation: Your history of GERD and the worsening of symptoms after eating could suggest an exacerbation of this condition. GERD is a chronic disease 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 and vomiting.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications and medications to decrease stomach acid. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

• Gastroparesis: This is a condition that affects the stomach muscles and prevents proper stomach emptying. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and feeling full quickly when eating. Diabetes and certain medications can cause gastroparesis, but in many cases, the cause is unknown.

  • Treatment typically involves dietary changes, medication, and in severe cases, surgery.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease: This is a condition where painful sores or ulcers develop in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum). Symptoms can include burning stomach pain, feeling of fullness, and nausea or vomiting.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid and protect the lining of the stomach and duodenum.

• Functional Dyspepsia: This is a chronic disorder of sensation and movement in the upper digestive tract. It's not related to any identifiable disease, including GERD and peptic ulcers. Symptoms can include persistent or recurrent pain or discomfort centered in the upper abdomen, along with nausea, vomiting, and feeling full quickly when eating.

  • Treatment typically involves dietary changes, medications to decrease stomach acid, and medications to help the stomach and intestines move food through more efficiently.

What you can do

While waiting for your appointment with a healthcare professional, you can:

1. Try to identify and avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.
2. Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
3. Avoid lying down or going to bed soon after eating.
4. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess pounds put pressure on your abdomen, pushing up your stomach and causing acid to back up into your esophagus.
5. Keep a symptom diary. This can help you and your healthcare professional identify triggers and effective treatments.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms worsen or if you experience:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Bloody or black stools
• Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.