Seeking Insights on Recurring Vomiting
Greetings! I am a 39-year-old female, standing at 5 feet 2 inches and weighing 107 pounds. I'm reaching out to gather opinions on the potential reasons behind my episodes of vomiting that occur unexpectedly every 1 to 3 weeks, a situation I've been dealing with for approximately five months. During this time, I consulted my healthcare provider who prescribed a medication aimed at alleviating mucus accumulation. While I noticed some improvement during the two-week treatment, the issues resurfaced once I finished the course of medication. Over the past several months, I've experienced persistent nausea. Occasionally, the discomfort escalates for several days prior to vomiting, while at other times, it appears quite suddenly. I haven't identified any specific patterns related to my diet or activities preceding these episodes. In addition to the nausea, I also suffer from bloating, particularly in the area between my upper ribs, accompanied by noticeable gurgling sounds. I have a long history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and am currently prescribed Brintellix. I do not smoke and refrain from using recreational drugs. My alcohol consumption is limited to 1 to 4 nights each month, typically just 1 or 2 drinks. However, I've significantly curtailed my drinking in the past six weeks due to the increasing frequency of my vomiting. Unfortunately, due to the healthcare system in my region, I won't be able to see a specialist until October, and this ongoing situation is becoming increasingly difficult to manage. Any advice or insights on this matter would be immensely helpful!
Answers (1)
4/4/2025, 10:01:25 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that dealing with recurring vomiting can be very distressing, especially when it's unpredictable and affects your overall well-being. It sounds like you've been quite proactive by consulting your healthcare provider, but it's important to address these concerns more thoroughly given your symptoms have continued.
Potential Causes
Your symptoms, including persistent nausea, vomiting, and bloating, could be related to several factors, including:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Your history of IBS can lead to digestive issues, including nausea and bloating.
- Gastric Retention: Conditions like gastroparesis can cause nausea and bloating if the stomach does not empty properly.
- Food Intolerances or Sensitivities: Some individuals react to certain foods that may not be obvious.
- Medication Side Effects: Brintellix can occasionally cause gastrointestinal side effects, so this interaction may need to be assessed.
- Other Underlying Conditions: While not your primary concerns, possibilities like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) could also play a role.
Next Steps
Here are specific, prioritized actions you can take to manage your symptoms while waiting for your specialist appointment:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a symptom diary for the next few weeks. Note what you eat, any associated symptoms (like nausea or bloating), and any triggers you can identify. This can provide valuable insights for your healthcare provider later on.
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Hydration and Diet: Stay well-hydrated, especially after an episode of vomiting. Try to consume small, bland meals that are easier to digest (e.g., rice, bananas, toast). Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods that could exacerbate nausea.
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Manage Stress: Stress can significantly impact IBS symptoms. Consider practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to help alleviate stress and its effects on your gut.
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Adjust Your Medications: Given your ongoing symptoms, revisit the medication prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you suspect that Brintellix is contributing to your gastrointestinal issues, discuss this with your provider as soon as possible, even if it's through a phone call.
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Avoid Alcohol and Potential Irritants: Since you've already started to limit alcohol, continue this practice. Also, monitor other potential irritants such as caffeine or carbonated drinks.
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Emergency Symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms such as intense abdominal pain, blood in your vomit, significant weight loss, or signs of dehydration (such as dizziness, extreme thirst, or reduced urination), seek immediate medical attention.
It's clear you're motivated to find solutions and improve your health. Tracking your symptoms and making gradual dietary adjustments are practical steps you can take in the meantime. Hang in there, and I wish you relief and clarity as you work through this.
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