Nausea and Vomiting: What's Making You Feel Sick?

Common Culprits

Acute gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is a leading cause of nausea and vomiting. Other frequent triggers include pregnancy, motion sickness, and certain medications. Sometimes more serious conditions like appendicitis or intestinal obstruction may be to blame. Chronic nausea can stem from issues like acid reflux, gastroparesis, or functional disorders.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical care if vomiting is severe, prolonged, or accompanied by fever, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration. Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds requires immediate attention. For chronic nausea, see your doctor if it's impacting your quality of life or causing unexplained weight loss.

Diagnosis and Tests

Your doctor will start with a thorough history and physical exam. Blood tests, urinalysis, or imaging studies may be ordered depending on your symptoms. For chronic nausea, an upper endoscopy might be recommended to examine your esophagus, stomach and upper intestine. In some cases, tests to measure how quickly your stomach empties may be helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

While unpleasant, nausea and vomiting are often harmless and short-lived, but can sometimes signal a more serious issue requiring medical attention.

Related Articles

• Treating Nausea and Vomiting: What Works Best?
• The Many Causes of Nausea: From Common to Complex
• Understanding Nausea: More Than Just an Upset Stomach
• Diagnosing the Cause of Nausea: From Simple Tests to Advanced Procedures

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