[47F] Experiencing persistent nausea and vomiting

Patient Description

A 47-year-old female has been experiencing persistent nausea and vomiting for over a month. The nausea is more bothersome and occurs all day, with eating and drinking exacerbating the symptoms. Sitting up provides some relief, but no other remedies have been effective. The patient reports feeling fatigued, lightheaded, and unbalanced. There are no accompanying symptoms of heartburn, abdominal pain, headaches, or changes in vision. The patient has not started any new medications or supplements recently and has traveled to different states without consuming unfamiliar foods or drinks. Her medical history includes a diagnosis of hepatitis C in 2019. She has a family history of diabetes, cancer, and psychiatric illnesses. Current medications include potassium MEQ once daily and B-1 once daily. No known medication allergies.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few possible explanations:

Gastrointestinal Issues: Chronic nausea and vomiting can be related to gastrointestinal problems such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These conditions can cause nausea, especially after eating or drinking, and may be exacerbated by certain foods or stress.
Hepatitis C: Since you have a history of hepatitis C, it's possible that your symptoms could be related to liver function. Hepatitis C can sometimes cause nausea, fatigue, and dizziness, especially if the liver is affected.
Vestibular Disorders: Your symptoms of dizziness and feeling unbalanced could be related to a vestibular disorder, which affects the inner ear and balance. This could also contribute to nausea.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Although you're taking potassium and B-1 supplements, it's possible that other nutritional deficiencies could be contributing to your symptoms, especially if your diet has been affected by nausea and vomiting.

Typical treatments or testing might include blood tests to check liver function and nutritional levels, imaging studies like an ultrasound or CT scan, and possibly an endoscopy to examine the gastrointestinal tract.

What you can do

Nausea and Vomiting:

Try eating small, bland meals throughout the day instead of large meals. Foods like crackers, toast, and rice can be easier on the stomach.
Stay hydrated by sipping on clear fluids like water, broth, or herbal tea. Avoid caffeinated or carbonated drinks.
Consider using over-the-counter anti-nausea medications, but consult with a healthcare provider first, especially given your medical history.

Fatigue and Dizziness:

Ensure you're getting enough rest and try to maintain a regular sleep schedule.
When feeling dizzy, sit or lie down immediately to prevent falls. Stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions.
Monitor your symptoms using MDandMe to track any patterns or triggers and share this information with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

It's important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down.
Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, decreased urination, or dizziness when standing.
Any new or worsening symptoms, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), which could indicate liver issues.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

1

Hugs

0

Comments

Save

3 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Morning Sickness: 3 Lines of Defense