Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms that can occur together or separately. While they often result from temporary conditions, persistent or severe cases may indicate an underlying medical issue.

Causes of Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting can arise from various sources, including gastrointestinal issues, infections, or systemic conditions.

Digestive Causes

• Gastroenteritis: Commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections, leading to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
• Acid Reflux or GERD: Stomach acid flowing into the esophagus can trigger nausea and occasional vomiting.
• Food Intolerances: Lactose or gluten intolerance may lead to nausea after consuming trigger foods.
• Gallbladder Disease: Gallstones or inflammation can cause nausea, especially after fatty meals.

Neurological Causes

• Migraine: Often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.
• Motion Sickness: Caused by mixed signals from the inner ear, eyes, and brain during movement.
• Head Injury: Concussions or brain trauma may cause nausea or vomiting as a symptom.

Infections and Illnesses

• Influenza: Can cause nausea, vomiting, fever, and body aches.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Severe infections may lead to nausea and vomiting.
• Appendicitis: Early symptoms often include nausea, progressing to vomiting and abdominal pain.

Medication and Treatment-Related Causes

• Side Effects of Medications: Including antibiotics, pain relievers, or chemotherapy.
• Anesthesia: Post-surgery nausea and vomiting are common due to the effects of anesthesia.

Hormonal and Metabolic Causes

• Pregnancy: Morning sickness is a frequent cause of nausea and vomiting in the first trimester.
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A serious complication of diabetes that may present with nausea and vomiting.

Other Causes

• Stress or Anxiety: Emotional distress can lead to nausea.
• Poisoning: Ingestion of toxins or spoiled food may cause acute nausea and vomiting.

Diagnosing Nausea and Vomiting

Diagnosing the underlying cause of nausea and vomiting involves reviewing symptoms, medical history, and conducting necessary tests.

Medical History
Your healthcare provider will ask about:

• Duration and frequency of nausea or vomiting.
• Triggers such as certain foods, smells, or movements.
• Associated symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, or headache.
• Recent travel, dietary changes, or medication use.

Physical Examination
The doctor may check for:

• Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth or reduced urination.
• Abdominal tenderness or bloating.
• Neurological signs if a head injury or brain condition is suspected.

Diagnostic Tests
Tests may include:

• Blood Tests: To detect infections, electrolyte imbalances, or metabolic disorders.
• Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to assess abdominal or neurological issues.
• Urinalysis: To rule out infections or complications like diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Endoscopy: To evaluate acid reflux, ulcers, or gastrointestinal blockages.

What Nausea and Vomiting Could Be a Symptom Of

Nausea and vomiting can signal various conditions, from mild to severe.

Mild Conditions

• Gastroenteritis: Often resolves within a few days with hydration and rest.
• Motion Sickness: Manageable with over-the-counter remedies or behavioral techniques.

Moderate Conditions

• Migraine: Requires medical treatment to manage symptoms effectively.
• Gallbladder Issues: May require dietary changes or surgery for resolution.

Serious Conditions

• Appendicitis: Requires immediate surgery to prevent complications.
• Bowel Obstruction: Causes persistent vomiting and requires urgent treatment.
• Severe Dehydration: Prolonged vomiting can lead to life-threatening dehydration.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Persistent vomiting lasting more than 24 hours.
• Vomiting with severe abdominal pain, fever, or headache.
• Blood in vomit or vomit that resembles coffee grounds.
• Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, confusion, or fainting.

Preventing Nausea and Vomiting

You can reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting by:

• Avoiding known triggers, such as certain foods or strong smells.
• Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding greasy or spicy foods.
• Staying hydrated, especially during illness or travel.
• Taking medications with food if advised by your doctor.

Nausea and vomiting are often manageable with home care, but persistent or severe cases warrant medical evaluation to identify and treat the underlying cause.

Book a consultation today for personalised advice and treatment.