Concerns About Vomiting
Over the past couple of days, I've experienced vomiting that started with white stomach acid, transitioned to yellow, and has now changed to brown. Should this be a cause for concern?
Answers (1)
7/10/2025, 4:40:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
Experiencing vomiting that changes in color, especially to brown, can be concerning and may indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed. Here’s an overview of what you’re experiencing and some next steps you can take.
Explanation
-
Vomit Color Changes:
- White Stomach Acid: Usually indicates the presence of bile or gastric juices.
- Yellow Vomit: Often signifies the presence of bile, which can occur when your stomach is empty.
- Brown Vomit: This can indicate that there is blood in the vomit (often referred to as "coffee ground" vomit) or that it may be digested material coming from the stomach or intestines.
-
Potential Causes: The vomiting could be related to numerous issues such as gastritis, an ulcer, blockage, severe dehydration, or other gastrointestinal disorders. It is essential to pay attention to any additional symptoms, such as pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits.
Next Steps
-
Monitor Additional Symptoms: Keep track of any other symptoms you may develop, such as pain, fever, dark or bloody stools, or severe abdominal discomfort.
-
Stay Hydrated: Focus on keeping hydrated. Sip clear fluids (like water, broth, or electrolyte solutions) to prevent dehydration.
-
Avoid Certain Foods: Steer clear of oily, spicy, or heavy foods until things normalize.
-
Rest: Ensure you get enough rest to support your body as it handles this issue.
-
Seek Immediate Help if:
- You start to feel severe abdominal pain,
- You notice blood in your vomit,
- You experience signs of dehydration (like dizziness, dry mouth, or dark urine),
- You have persistent vomiting lasting more than 24 hours.
If things don’t improve or worsen, consider reaching out for professional medical evaluation to ensure appropriate interventions are initiated. It’s important to listen to your body and prioritize your health in these situations.
Related Questions
Questioning My Pituitary Lesion’s Impact on My Health
I’m a 23-year-old female with a noteworthy lesion on the posterior left side of my pituitary gland, measuring 11mm in width, 8mm in height, and 6mm in depth. The radiology report indicates that my infundibulum is midline but truncated as a result of this lesion. Staying active is essential to me; I typically engage in weight lifting and workouts around five days each week, performance permitting. My height is 5’6” and I weigh approximately 160 pounds, although my weight has varied between 148 and 168 over the last eight months. My physically demanding job has become increasingly challenging. I experience a range of symptoms, such as: - Extreme fatigue - Hair loss - Migraines originating from the left side of my head, specifically behind my left eye and at the base of my skull (these are new for me) - Numbness and tingling in my face and left arm during severe migraine attacks - Occasional blurred or double vision - Altered body odor and perspiration levels - Vertigo - A sensation of a lump in my throat (I suspect this is linked to my pituitary lesion and thyroid issues, although my thyroid levels appear normal). Despite my efforts to communicate these concerns to medical professionals, my neurologist insists that my condition is symptom-free. The imaging report hints at possibilities including hemorrhagic pituitary microadenoma, pituitary apoplexy, or proteinaceous material within a Rathke cleft cyst, among others. I have an appointment with an endocrinologist lined up and aim to seek another neurological opinion as well. However, I find myself questioning my own sanity. I’m in constant discomfort, struggling to gather the energy for daily tasks, and enduring migraines that mimic stroke symptoms weekly. The debilitating pain and pressure behind my left eye are distressing almost daily. As I prepare for my upcoming endocrinologist appointment, I’m unsure how to organize my thoughts and articulate my feelings properly. All my recent DICOM files have been sent, but I want to ensure I present my situation clearly. I have been experiencing pain continuously since I was 15 years old. Each time I voice my concerns, I can’t shake the feeling of being dismissed due to my age, fitness level, and apparent health. Should I discontinue any supplements ahead of blood tests? Is fasting required? Should I request particular tests? What’s the best way to track my headaches or energy fluctuations? Any recommendations would be appreciated. Additional Information: - Diagnosed with a pituitary cyst/adenoma (my doctor hasn’t specified which, nor do I fully understand the difference), ADHD, recurrent depression (currently in remission), lumbar/thoracic spondylosis, and cervicalgia in the occipito-atlanto-axial region. - Medications/Supplements: I currently take methylphenidate (Concerta, 27 mg CR), spironolactone (100 mg for acne), sumatriptan (50 mg for migraines, though it isn’t very effective), IUD (Liletta, placed August 2024 after replacing Kyleena from 2019), Xyzal (5 mg for seasonal allergies), magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D (2000 IU), vitamin C, vitamin B12 (suggested in my last appointment), vitamin A, and L-lysine (1000 mg, recommended for cold sores). Possibly relevant details include receiving trigger point injections for headache relief. The initial treatment yielded positive results, addressing neck tension, but subsequent sessions offered little benefit. In April 2024, I suffered a concussion and corneal abrasion from a workplace accident, which I initially believed to be the source of my ongoing pain and neck problems. However, the emergence of severe sleep disturbances and the discovery of the pituitary lesion shifted my focus. Though my primary care provider has assessed my thyroid function and inflammatory markers, results showed normal levels. I suspect these assessments may not have been thorough enough based on my limited research. I am more than willing to provide further details. I have posted additional information in a different subreddit that may illuminate my situation more clearly if needed.
Concern Over Unusual Brown Spot on Scalp
Hello, I’m a 19-year-old female and my health is generally good, with the only medication I take being birth control. Recently, I noticed two brown spots on my scalp that resemble freckles or possibly moles, and I’m curious about what others think. Context: Skin cancer runs in my family, which makes me vigilant about sun protection. I consistently apply sunscreen and wear hats to shield myself from UV rays. I don’t have many moles or freckles and have never tanned indoors. The spots are located under my hair and haven't received much sun exposure. A few months back, I experienced seborrheic dermatitis in this area, resulting in yellowish flakes. After visiting a dermatologist, I was prescribed a medicated shampoo, which effectively resolved the issue. Since then, I’ve monitored the area without any signs of recurrence. I only recently discovered these brown spots, likely having emerged within the last week or two. Initially, I thought they might be seborrheic keratosis, but they don’t have a raised or flaky texture, and I can’t feel them when I touch my scalp. I have experienced occasional mild headaches in that region, though I’m uncertain if these are related to the spots. I understand that diagnosing skin conditions through a photograph can be challenging, but I would greatly appreciate any insights, particularly if this seems like an issue that warrants professional evaluation!
Intense Back Discomfort
This morning, I was greeted by a sudden, intense discomfort in my lower back. The site of the pain is located approximately 10 centimeters above and to the left of my tailbone. The affected area is relatively small, measuring roughly 3 centimeters in diameter. The pain is predominantly sharp, occasionally accompanied by muscle spasms. Typically, this sensation lasts around three minutes before subsiding for a period. After some research, I came across information suggesting it could be related to a disc problem in the back; however, I am not convinced that this pain is linked to my spine. It feels somewhat akin to a strong headache, but located in my back instead. This type of discomfort is unfamiliar to me, and I find myself questioning its potential causes. Additionally, to clarify, the discomfort is localized and does not radiate to other areas.
Seeking Help for a Chemical Injury: Eye Doctor's Opinions Don't Add Up
Hello, I'm an 18-year-old male weighing 135 lbs, and I serve as a lifeguard. Recently, on June 12th, I accidentally got a cleaning agent, specifically 315 Foaming Acid from Waxie, in my left eye. Initially, I experienced some irritation, but by the next day, my eye seemed inflamed and uncomfortable. On that Friday, I completed my driving test successfully, yet the discomfort in my eye had intensified compared to Thursday. I attributed this to insufficient sleep. On Saturday, I attended a mandatory training session that required two hours of skills practice, both in the pool and on land. Despite the lingering irritation, I dismissed it again as a result of poor sleep. However, after being in the water during training, the discomfort intensified significantly, and I began feeling a sharp, poking sensation in my eye. Come Sunday, I noticed a small red mark on my lower eyelid accompanied by increased pain, which I managed to tolerate. When Monday arrived, my eye was even more swollen, and I had pus accumulation. A visit to the work medical clinic led to a diagnosis of irritation and inflammation, with an assurance it would subside by the following day. On Tuesday, the swelling and pus continued, so I was referred to an eye specialist that same day. The doctor diagnosed me with Preseptal Cellulitis and mentioned that while the chemical exposure could be a factor, it was deemed unlikely. By Thursday, a different doctor examined me, agreed things seemed to improve, but recommended draining the affected area. When I inquired about the potential link between my symptoms and the chemical exposure, he assured me that the chemical itself could not have caused an infection. After a week passed, I was informed during a follow-up visit that my work-related injury (hordeolum) would not be covered by workers' compensation due to it not being linked to the chemical incident. On July 10th, I communicated with the initial eye doctor, and he reiterated that there was no connection between the chemical exposure and my infection. Interestingly, he also noted that the chemical might have actually neutralized the bacteria, ruling it out as a cause. Now, I find myself needing to challenge this narrative. I have researched the Safety Data Sheet for 315 Foaming Acid, indicating that it is a known eye and skin irritant capable of causing burns. Its components can obstruct the glands in the eye, which logically sets the stage for bacterial growth. Given that bacteria entered my eye on Saturday, combined with the potential damage inflicted by the chemical within the 48-72 hours window, it's plausible this all contributed to the development of the hordeolum. Although my condition has improved remarkably and I have fully recovered, I am seeking assistance in understanding how exactly this chemical exposure could lead to my infection. I aim to build a case to provide my doctors, as I believe I should rightfully receive compensation from workers' comp for the infection likely influenced by the cleaning agent entering my eye.
Seeking Guidance on Prolonged Stomach Issues While Awaiting Specialist Appointment
Hello, Reddit community! I'm a 16-year-old female and this is my first post here. I've been grappling with persistent stomach issues since August 2020. I find myself on a waiting list for over a year for a specialist appointment—kudos to the NHS for that! I’m reaching out for some guidance and to ensure that my symptoms aren’t pointing to anything serious. Here’s a summary of my situation: - Back in August 2020, I was hospitalized due to dehydration, diarrhea, and severe abdominal pain. The attending doctor diagnosed me with an infection without conducting any tests. Later, I discovered it was probably an extreme reaction to penicillin. - Following that incident, I have experienced cycles of severe nausea roughly three to four times each month, along with some constipation and occasional diarrhea, though nothing overly serious. - In November 2024, I contracted a nasty stomach virus that hindered my ability to eat for about two weeks. - Since that time, my symptoms have intensified considerably. I now experience nausea at least twice daily, abdominal cramps between meals, and I’m often quite gassy. Approximately every two weeks, I suffer from episodes of watery diarrhea, constipation, and a complete lack of appetite, leaving me perpetually fatigued. - One particularly severe flare-up in April rendered me bed-ridden for two weeks. I visited the emergency department, but I was discharged shortly after with little concern from the staff. - I began consulting my GP about these problems in January. I've undergone tests for celiac disease (negative results), Crohn's disease (also negative), and various infection screenings (all negative). I've diligently maintained a food diary for months, only to find no conclusive results. - The stool sample I provided in February showed borderline inflammation, which escalated in April. My doctor mentioned the possibility of an inflammatory bowel condition but also suggested that this might just be my baseline. - Recently, my appetite has significantly diminished, making meals feel like a chore. - Since January, I have lost about 5 kg. - Currently, I'm on the waiting list for a colonoscopy, anticipating at least a year for that appointment. For additional context: - I take omeprazole for acid reflux and nausea. - When feeling unwell, I use Pepto-Bismol and antacids, which are effective around 50% of the time. - I have asthma and use both an inhaler and Montelukast, with recent flare-ups. - I tend to experience eczema flare-ups when I’m not feeling well. - For menstrual discomfort, I rely on the mini pill. - I also incorporate daily probiotics and a multivitamin into my routine. - Anxiety has been a long-standing issue for me, yet I am currently unmedicated and have not received any formal treatment. Thank you for reading through my concerns; I truly appreciate any insights or advice you may have. I will do my best to answer any questions you might have in the comments section.