Overwhelming Nausea Leads to Despair
Greetings. I’m a 26-year-old man grappling with persistent nausea that has plagued me for the last five days. This unpleasant sensation greets me every morning and lingers throughout the day. Initially, I managed to cope during the first three days; however, the discomfort has intensified significantly since then. Yesterday, I visited the emergency room, where they conducted imaging and laboratory tests. Fortunately, the results were mostly normal, apart from slightly elevated bilirubin levels. This isn't a major concern for us, as I’ve had high bilirubin since my high school days. However, the scans did raise some flags suggesting possible May-Thurner syndrome (MALS). On a positive note, my liver function tests appeared normal. I was given prescriptions for metoclopramide (10mg) and ondansetron (4mg) to alleviate my symptoms, with the advice to endure through the discomfort. Until last night, I hadn’t experienced vomiting, but I ended up dry heaving a few times, both last night and again this morning, although nothing substantial came up. The medications offer a bit of relief but the situation remains utterly distressing. I have a general care appointment lined up for the 1st and a consultation with a gastric surgeon on the 3rd to review the CT findings. Other than that, the doctors have yet to identify any clear cause for what I’m experiencing. I’m truly at a crossroads here. Though I lack an appetite, I am still trying to consume soft foods to nourish myself.
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 5:30:54 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the overwhelming nausea you've been experiencing. It can be frustrating and distressing not knowing the cause, especially when it disrupts your daily life. The good news is that you are actively seeking help and have appointments scheduled for further evaluation. Let's focus on managing your symptoms and supporting your well-being.
Key Points:
- Persistent nausea can stem from various causes, including gastrointestinal issues, but the normal lab results are encouraging.
- You have scheduled follow-ups with your general care doctor and a gastric surgeon, which are important for further evaluation.
Explanation:
Nausea can be caused by many factors, including gastrointestinal issues or even side effects from medications. Since you mentioned the onset of nausea in the mornings with a slight improvement after taking your prescribed medicines, it seems that your body is reacting, and there's a possibility that you're experiencing a combination of physical and possibly anxiety-related symptoms given the ongoing uncertainty.
Practical Steps to Consider:
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Stay Hydrated: Sip clear fluids like water, herbal teas, or clear broths throughout the day. This can help keep you hydrated and may settle your stomach.
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Small, Frequent Meals: Since you're lacking an appetite, try to eat small portions of bland, easy-to-digest foods (like crackers, rice, or bananas) every few hours rather than larger meals. This can help minimize nausea.
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Ginger: Consider ginger, which can naturally help with nausea. Ginger tea or ginger candies might provide relief.
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Rest: Ensure you’re getting adequate rest. Fatigue can worsen symptoms, so allow yourself time to relax and recuperate.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms to note any patterns or triggers to discuss with your doctors. Include information about what you've tried to eat and how it impacted your nausea.
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Stress Management: Engage in relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or light stretching. Reducing stress can sometimes lessen nausea.
Your upcoming appointments are essential for further diagnosis and management, so keep following through with those. If your symptoms worsen significantly—such as new vomiting, significant pain, or any alarming signs—prioritize seeking immediate care. You're doing the right thing by seeking help, and I hope you find relief soon. Let me know if you have any more questions or need additional support.
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