OpenHealth Q&A

Get answered by medical professionals

Understanding the Unusual Vomiting: What are These Odd Clumps?

8/14/2025, 8:10:59 PMMale25-34

I’m a 25-year-old female, standing 5’6” tall and weighing 199 pounds. Since September 2024, I’ve been on Zepbound, maintaining a steady dosage of 7.5mg for the past six months. Although it has worked effectively most of the time, I occasionally experience severe illness. This past Monday night, I took my injection, and since Tuesday morning, I’ve been dealing with persistent vomiting, intense sulfuric burps, and diarrhea. During my recent episodes of vomiting, I noticed some peculiar white clusters resembling grape-sized balls. Curious, I managed to retrieve one with some toilet paper; it felt solid yet could easily be squished. The only food I consumed the previous day was mashed potatoes, hoping to keep it down. Is there any insight into what these might be? Additionally, I wanted to mention that I am considering discontinuing this medication. While I've successfully lost 70 pounds during treatment, the side effects, including this latest episode of vomiting—similar to an incident from a month or two ago that required a trip to the emergency room for fluids—have led me to reevaluate its worth.

Crohn's DiseaseInternal MedicineEndocrinology

Answers (1)

Cony

8/14/2025, 8:11:41 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you’re experiencing some significant gastrointestinal discomfort with unusual symptoms. Your vomiting, sulfuric burps, and diarrhea, along with the appearance of the white clumps, can be concerning, especially given your recent history of similar episodes.

Main Points:

  1. Potential Causes of Symptoms: The white clusters you describe and your gastrointestinal symptoms could suggest undigested food, potential mucous secretions, or even bile. These might occur due to the digestive disturbances caused by your current medication or an underlying condition like Crohn's disease, which can affect how food is processed in your gut.

  2. Reassessing Medication: Given your adverse symptoms, it’s understandable to reconsider the use of Zepbound, especially since you've experienced significant weight loss. However, any decision about discontinuing medication should ideally be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Explanation:

  • Vomiting and Diarrhea: These symptoms can result from various factors, including dietary choices, medication side effects, or post-injection reactions. The appearance of white clumps during vomiting might indicate that your stomach is struggling to break down foods properly or that it’s responding to irritation from your medication.

  • Concern for Underlying Issues: Crohn’s disease can contribute to inflammation and digestive tract issues, leading to symptoms like you’re experiencing. It’s important to monitor for any additional changes.

Next Steps:

  1. Track Symptoms: Keep a detailed symptom diary noting when vomiting occurs, food intake, and any other accompanying symptoms. This will help identify possible triggers and patterns.

  2. Hydration & Diet: Focus on staying hydrated with clear fluids (like water or broths) and consider a bland diet for the next few days to see if your symptoms improve. Foods like bananas, rice, and applesauce are generally soothing for an upset stomach.

  3. Monitor Changes: If your vomiting continues or worsens, particularly if you notice blood or experience severe abdominal pain, watch for signs of dehydration (like decreased urination or dizziness) and take corrective actions like electrolyte solutions.

  4. Plan for Medication Reevaluation: Prepare to discuss your side effects and experiences with a healthcare provider soon. They can offer alternatives or look for the underlying causes of your symptoms, particularly in the context of Crohn’s disease.

If you have any further concerns or additional symptoms arise, please consider reaching out for medical advice. Your well-being is important!

Related Questions

Foreign Object in Eye

I’m a 19-year-old female, weighing 43 kg and standing at 158 cm. I don’t wear glasses or contact lenses and am currently not taking any medication. Earlier today, I accidentally dropped my blanket and, when I shook it out, something got into my eye. I suspect it might be a crumb. I attempted to rinse my eye with water while in the shower, but it was quite painful and didn’t resolve the issue, so I stopped. At the moment, the discomfort is minimal unless I blink quickly, squint, or touch around my eye. My vision seems mostly unaffected, although occasionally it gets a bit blurry. I'm wondering if it's okay to just let it be for the day and even sleep it off. What should I do next? Tomorrow happens to be a public holiday, which means I can't visit a pharmacy, and I don’t have any eye drops on hand. Any advice would be appreciated!

COPDInternal MedicineEndocrinology
Male25-34
35 minutes ago

Persistent Illness Over the Past Year

A 24-year-old female, standing at 5 feet 5 inches and weighing approximately 160 pounds, identifies as Caucasian and resides in Canada. She consumes alcohol socially but does not smoke, vape, or use recreational drugs. **Primary Concern: Ongoing illness since October 2024. My friends and family remain healthy, prompting me to question the root cause of my recurring health issues.** **Symptoms:** Experiencing a productive cough with phlegm that is vividly colored (yellow/green), nasal congestion, mild sinus headaches, general fatigue accompanied by muscle soreness, episodes of feeling faint, and a scratchy throat resulting in discomfort when swallowing (around a 2 on a pain scale). Hearing and ear problems are absent. **Medications and Health Background:** I take daily supplements including vitamins C and D, along with Nexplanon and low-dose aspirin. For asthma management, I use a beclometasone inhaler at 200 micrograms, twice each day, along with a salbutamol sulfate inhaler (100 micrograms as needed). In November 2021, I had a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and a paratubal cyst. My vaccination schedule is current, with a mild penicillin allergy noted from childhood. **Health Issues Before 2024:** I previously experienced sporadic bouts of illness including tonsillitis and COVID-19, alongside some episodes that were never diagnosed, typically occurring in late autumn and winter. **Health Issues Since Fall 2024:** I have fallen ill every one to two months, each episode lasting about 1.5 to 2 weeks, with varying symptom intensity. 1. October 30 - November 5 2. November 15 - December 31 (on and off with no testing but was prescribed doxycycline, which proved ineffective) 3. February 1-15 (received another doxycycline prescription without success) 4. April 1-12 5. April 25-30 (submitted a sputum sample to my general practitioner who identified strep G and prescribed clarithromycin due to doxycycline resistance) *There was a reprieve in May and June, coinciding with my move from the UK back to Canada.* 1. July 7-12 2. August 11 - Present **Today, August 14:** I consulted with my GP following a telehealth session yesterday. While the examination returned normal findings, I was referred for a chest X-ray to exclude pneumonia, which came back clear. My GP suggested a saline rinse as a part of my treatment. I have hesitated to share my experience, as it may not seem grave, and I don't wish to detract from those with more pressing needs. However, I am feeling quite frustrated and downcast. This ongoing illness is impacting my work—something I cannot afford to neglect—and affecting my social interactions. I realize that sometimes conditions resolve on their own without intervention, yet I can’t shake the anxiety over the lack of follow-up or additional testing. I find it difficult to accept that I could be suffering for such an extended period due to something benign like a common cold rather than a more significant health issue. If further details are needed, please feel free to ask. I appreciate your time and any guidance you can provide <3

AsthmaCrohn's DiseaseCOPD
Male25-34
45 minutes ago

31M, 164cm, 82kg - Concern About Long-Term Effects of Substance Use and Medical Dismissal

It has been a couple of months since I last used any substances. Currently, I am experiencing several troubling symptoms. When I’m sober, I observe that my right pupil is noticeably larger than the left, particularly in dim lighting. Additionally, I occasionally see flashes of light when I shift my gaze and suffer from persistent floaters and visual disturbances. Balance has become a challenge for me, and there’s a slight tremor in my right hand. Moreover, I often notice that my head and hands feel flush. My anisocoria fluctuates, making it harder to detect in brighter conditions. Furthermore, there’s a perennial slight pinkness in my left eye that suggests some form of inflammation. My eyelid on the same side also appears droopy. Throughout my life, I had never sought medical assistance, but when I finally did, I felt dismissed by healthcare professionals. They often brush off my concerns, possibly because of my young age and seemingly robust health. However, deep down, I sense that something is wrong. I have engaged in risky behaviors involving high doses of stimulants administered intravenously and survived, but I no longer feel like my normal self. It’s concerning that nobody seems to take my situation seriously. I am neither psychotic nor do I possess any background of anxiety disorders. My foremost concern revolves around the possibility of having a brain tumor, an aneurysm, or an arterial issue. Yet, whenever I advocate for imaging tests, I encounter resistance from the medical staff. All I wish for is reassurance that I am not facing immediate health threats or dying as a consequence of my past decisions. My goal is to attain optimal health without the fear of sudden collapse. I have compiled an exhaustive list of my symptoms and worries. Would it be beneficial to present this information to my general practitioner, or might they perceive me as merely paranoid? - Persistent daydreaming or zoning out - Visual disturbances including visual snow - Occasional light flashes in low light environments - Poor nighttime vision - A creaking sound in my neck or ear on the right side during substance use (now resolved) - Numbness and tingling around my right eye that intensifies when lying down - Anisocoria with a potentially dilated right pupil (uncertain if the left isn't dilating adequately) - Eyelid droop - Tremor in my right hand - Gradually worsening clumsiness - Difficulty with word retrieval and trouble performing simple mental arithmetic - Inconsistent diastolic blood pressure readings between arms (a difference of 10-14 mmHg) - Facial flushing; my entire face, palms, and chest turn bright red - Vasoconstriction in my extremities; red fingertips and pale fingers.

Thyroid DisordersCOPDInternal Medicine
Male25-34
45 minutes ago

Urgent Need for Florida Resources for Aggressive Autistic Teen

Hello everyone, I’m reaching out because my sister, who resides in Florida, is facing a critical situation with her son, who is 16 years old. My concern for their safety and his well-being has grown tremendously. I understand this message is lengthy, but it's essential to provide context so that those who read it can grasp the severity and offer appropriate suggestions or resources. Initially, my nephew was diagnosed with oppositional defiance disorder, and by the time he turned seven, he received an autism diagnosis. He demonstrates remarkable intelligence and is quite high-functioning in certain aspects, such as engaging in lengthy, detailed discussions and performing well academically. However, he struggles significantly in social interactions and has a strong aversion to leaving home. The pandemic has only exacerbated his anxiety, leading to a pronounced fear of germs; he now showers multiple times a day and insists on showering immediately after being outdoors. Since around the age of eight or nine, he has been homeschooled through a virtual program offered by the state. His social circle is virtually non-existent aside from a cousin, which has led to extreme isolation. Unfortunately, this seclusion has not calmed his temperament; rather, his aggression has intensified over the last five years. He has experienced multiple hospitalizations due to violent outbursts, during which he was prescribed medications that his parents opted to discontinue out of concern for how they altered his behavior. Each time the medication is stopped, his aggressive tendencies resurface. Much of this aggression is directed at my sister. He has thrown furniture at her, damaged walls by punching them, caused her significant injuries, and most recently nearly broke her nose. He exerts control over her life, dictating her eating habits, viewing choices, and even forcing her to watch his preferred television programs, compelling her to face the screen if she dares to look away. Out of fear, she has taken to hiding all sharp objects in the home after he once threatened her with a knife and previously destroyed numerous art pieces by cutting them. Strikingly, he has never physically attacked my brother-in-law; instead, all his rage is focused on my sister. My sister’s background is fraught with difficulties. She was raised by my mother, grandmother, and biological father, each contributing their own form of neglect or abuse. At 16, she met her husband, who was 25 at that time, through church, and they married when she turned 18. Sadly, her first pregnancy ended in stillbirth, but two years later, my nephew was born. Throughout the years, I've had a tumultuous relationship with her husband, observing how much he indulges my nephew, which I believe exacerbates the issues. A recent family visit brought the gravity of the situation into sharp focus. My nephew refused to attend, distressed by the presence of my parents’ dogs, which he finds upsetting despite their training. During the gathering, he secluded himself in a bedroom, clearly unhappy. My sister chose to leave early upon recognizing his shifting mood, fearing an outburst in my parents’ home. Day after day, she makes decisions aimed at maintaining peace, living in constant dread of provoking him. From my location four states away, I feel utterly powerless. I sometimes wish she would send him to stay with me, as I wouldn’t tolerate his behavior, yet I am equally frightened of his aggression. I have mentioned the idea of a group home, yet the costs are prohibitive, and my brother-in-law is staunchly opposed. I genuinely believe he requires a higher level of care before a tragedy strikes. The fear of receiving a call about my sister being harmed or my nephew suffering a severe crisis looms over me. What I Am Seeking Florida-based resources pertaining to: - Affordable or state-supported group homes or residential facilities for aggressive autistic teenagers - Crisis intervention teams skilled in handling autism-related violence and emergencies - Support programs for caregivers, including respite care - Legal or protective measures for my sister’s safety while ensuring that my nephew receives the necessary care If anyone has experienced something similar or knows of organizations or programs equipped to address these issues, I would truly appreciate your insights. **In Summary:** My nephew, 16 and autistic, is facing severe social anxiety, germ-related phobias, and alarming violent episodes, primarily targeting my sister. She is in a state of constant fear for their safety. While he has been hospitalized several times, the prescribed medications are routinely halted, and there is strong resistance from the family toward group home placement. I urgently need Florida resources focused on residential care, crisis intervention, and support for caregiver safety to prevent a potential disaster.

DiabetesMultiple SclerosisEndocrinology
Male25-34
1 hour ago

Persistent Swelling in Lymph Nodes for Over Two Months

Hello! I’m seeking some guidance. I’m a 30-year-old female who doesn’t smoke or drink. Since June, I’ve noticed a peculiar lump on my chin. Initially, I suspected it was a recurrence of a cyst that was surgically removed in 2002. However, a recent CT scan revealed three swollen lymph nodes in the submental area, with one being particularly prominent. The visibility is exacerbated by an existing scar in that location, making it more pronounced. After consulting two different ENT specialists, I have not found any relief. They prescribed antibiotics, yet the swelling persists. The size of the lymph nodes varies significantly; at times, they are quite large, while on other days, they shrink down but remain noticeable. It has become increasingly frustrating, and I feel self-conscious about my appearance in public. I began taking birth control (Junel 20/1) in May to manage my painful and heavy menstrual periods. Recently, I visited my OBGYN to investigate any possible connection between the medication and my symptoms, but she assured me that there is no link. Aside from the birth control, my diet and supplement intake remain unchanged. Recently, I’ve experienced intermittent bouts of nausea, which is uncommon for me, although no other symptoms have emerged. My blood tests and CT scans have all returned normal except for the swollen lymph nodes, and I was in good health before this situation arose. It's been over two months now, and I feel like I am at a dead end with no solutions in sight.

ArthritisLupusInternal Medicine
Male25-34
1 hour ago