Seeking Help: My Wife's Continuous Vomiting
Greetings everyone, I'm reaching out from a quaint town in Ontario, Canada. For the past four months, my wife, who is 39 years old, has been suffering greatly. Every time she consumes food or even drinks a sip of water, she is instantly sickened and vomits. When I say instantly, I mean it happens within mere seconds; there’s absolutely no time for her to brace herself. She doesn't experience any feelings of nausea; it appears as if her body is simply rejecting everything that enters her stomach. In this short period, she has drastically lost weight, dropping from 225 pounds to just 160 pounds. Her clothing size has changed from XL to medium, a stark transformation. Just to clarify, this is not a case of self-induced purging; it genuinely seems as if her body cannot tolerate any substances. As a certified chef, I've experimented with various diets to no avail; however, since this reaction occurs even with water, I rule out dietary issues as a factor. She has undergone numerous tests, including blood work, a gastrointestinal scope, CT scans, ultrasounds, and X-rays, yet still, the medical professionals haven't pinpointed any issues. It's disheartening to feel that this condition isn’t being taken seriously, and I live in constant fear of possible long-lasting harm to her health. The next scheduled test is another upper GI scope, where she will need to swallow gas granules and drink barium while imaging is performed under fluoroscopy. Unfortunately, that appointment isn't until September 22, which feels like an eternity, especially given how much weight she has already lost. If anyone has suggestions on possible causes or advice on what she might discuss with her doctor, I would greatly appreciate it. I am genuinely worried and feeling increasingly hopeless.
Answers (1)
8/29/2025, 12:13:43 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about your wife's distressing situation. The continuous vomiting and significant weight loss she is experiencing is understandably concerning, and it’s commendable that you’re seeking solutions and support for her.
Main Points:
- Continuous vomiting can stem from various causes, including GI disorders, stress responses, or other medical conditions.
- Weight loss and dehydration are significant concerns that need immediate attention.
- It's crucial to maintain open communication with healthcare providers for ongoing support and testing.
Explanation:
The symptoms your wife is facing—vomiting immediately after consuming any food or drink—could indicate several potential issues. These might include:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.
- Gastroparesis: A condition that affects the stomach's ability to empty itself.
- Obstruction: Even if not visible in prior tests, a subtle blockage could still be the issue.
- Nervous system issues: Sometimes, the body reacts to stress or other inputs, causing physiological responses like vomiting.
- Metabolic or hormonal imbalances may also play a role, especially considering the sudden weight loss.
Given that many tests have already been conducted, the upcoming upper GI scope could provide critical insights. In the meantime, it’s crucial to address her health proactively.
Next Steps:
-
Hydration: Sip small amounts of clear fluids frequently (like electrolyte drinks) to prevent dehydration. Make it a priority, since dehydration can complicate recovery.
-
Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of what happens after eating or drinking—track specific symptoms, timeframes, and any foods that seem less triggering.
-
Communicate with the Healthcare Team: Encourage your wife to discuss the following topics during her next appointment:
- Potential triggers: Ask if stress-management techniques might help.
- Alternative tests: Discuss the possibility of seeing a specialist in gastrointestinal disorders if current tests continue to yield no answers.
- Nutritional support: Inquire about working with a dietitian who can help manage her symptoms and recommend safe foods.
-
Mental Health Check: Due to the emotional toll this situation may take on both of you, consider seeking support through a counselor or support group for chronic illness to help manage stress and feelings of hopelessness.
It's important to feel empowered in your wife's care and to ensure all options are being explored. Support her in these next steps, and keep an open dialogue with her healthcare team. Wishing you both the best as you navigate this challenging time together.
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