[57F] Experiencing nausea, cough, diarrhea, and dizziness

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possibilities:

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause diarrhea, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. It's usually self-limiting, meaning it will resolve on its own without treatment.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.

• Vertigo: This is a sensation of feeling off balance and experiencing a dizzy spell that feels like everything around you is spinning or moving. It can be caused by problems in the brain or inner ear, including sudden head movements, inflammation within the inner ear due to a viral or bacterial infection, Meniere's disease, migraines, or complications from diabetes.

  • Treatment for vertigo depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. It may include medications, physical maneuvers, or other methods.

• Asthma exacerbation: Your wheezing and coughing could be due to an asthma flare-up. This could be triggered by a respiratory infection, which might also explain your other symptoms.

  • Treatment involves using your prescribed asthma medications, including your rescue inhaler. If your symptoms are severe or not improving, you should seek medical attention.

• Side effects from medication: Some of your symptoms could be side effects from your medications. Many medications can cause nausea, diarrhea, and other digestive symptoms.

  • If you suspect this is the case, you should discuss this with your doctor. Do not stop taking your medications without consulting a healthcare professional.

What you can do

1. Stay hydrated: Diarrhea and vomiting can cause you to lose fluids and electrolytes, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water or oral rehydration solutions.
2. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus. Getting rest will help the recovery process.
3. Over-the-counter medication: Over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication can help with diarrhea. Over-the-counter antinausea medication can help with nausea.
4. Use your asthma medications: If you are having an asthma flare-up, use your prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.

What you should look out for

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

• Severe abdominal or rectal pain
• Blood in your stool or vomit
• Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, dry skin, or feeling excessively thirsty or tired
• Symptoms of a severe asthma attack, such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or wheezing that doesn't improve with medication
• Severe dizziness or vertigo, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms like a severe headache, double vision, or trouble speaking

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.