Health Issues
Nausea and Vomiting
Most cases of nausea and vomiting are harmless and resolve on their own. However, sometimes, more serious conditions cause these symptoms. The range of conditions that may cause nausea and vomiting includes:
- Infection from viruses or bacteria, such as the stomach flu or food poisoning
- Pregnancy
- Stress or nervousness
- Medications, such as certain pain medicines and antibiotics
- Migraine headache
- Brain tumor or head injury
- Appendicitis
- Brain infection (encephalitis or meningitis)
- Intestinal blockage
- Motion (car or boat rides)
- Problems with organs such as the gallbladder, pancreas, liver and stomach
Treatment
Home Care
- Avoid solid foods until the vomiting has stopped. If you have not vomited in thirty minutes start with one sip of Sprite, Gator Aid, etc. if this stays down twenty minutes then take two sips, etc.
- Drink clear liquids only and take small amounts frequently. Avoid drinking large amounts at one time, as this can cause more vomiting. It is good to stay on clear liquids including chicken broth and jello for the entire day – if these stay down then you can add crackers or dry toast.
- Rest, movement can worsen vomiting.
- Stop all medicines you fell may be causing the vomiting.
- Be aware of signs and symptoms of dehydration, especially in the young and elderly.
Professional Care
Seek medical attention if:
- Signs of dehydration develop
- Vomiting occurs with sever head ache, chest pain, sever abdominal pain, fever and chills, or abdominal swelling
- Vomit contains blood or a substance that looks like coffee grounds
- Vomiting last more than 24 hours or occurs after a head injury
Prevention
Nausea and vomiting can come on very suddenly and therefore can be very difficult to prevent. However, the following measures may help:
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly to decrease your risk of getting the stomach flu.
- Cook meat well and do not leave food unrefrigerated for long periods of time.
- Contact our physician for preventative medicines if you become car or seasick easily.
Dehydration
Dehydration is the loss of water and salt form the body. Many things can cause dehydration. Vomiting, diarrhea, or not drinking enough water, are common causes. Sometimes a high fever or spending too long in the sun and heat can cause dehydration. Medicines such as diuretics (water pills) can cause you to lose too much water. This condition is especially dangerous in the young and elderly.Symptoms of dehydration can include a dry mouth and tongue, extreme thirst, and little or no urination. Other signs include weight loss, fast heartbeat, and sunken eyes. Late signs may include dizziness and confusion.Treatment
Home Care
- Drink water or an oral rehydration solution if you are vomiting or have diarrhea. It is best to drink small sips frequently because taking larger amounts may make your vomiting worse.
- Eat small bites of saltine crackers to replace salt.
Professional Care
Seek medical attention if:
- Vomiting lasts more than 24 hours
- You are unable to hold down even small sips of fluid because of excessive vomiting
- You have more than ten stools a day or diarrhea last more than 48 hours
- You develop any late signs of dehydration, such as extreme lightheadedness, rapid breathing, fast heartbeat, confusion, sleepiness, or lack of urine for more than eight hours.
Prevention
- Always have water available. Drink eight to ten glasses per day and more during times of exercise or exposure to heat.
- Be aware of signs and symptoms of dehydration, especially if you are ill with vomiting or diarrhea.