Ongoing Nausea Following Ibuprofen Use
I am a 28-year-old female, approximately 1.60 meters tall and weighing 56.5 kg, and have been diagnosed with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH), tachycardia, and asthenia. For the past week, I have been consuming ibuprofen as instructed, taking a daily dosage of 800mg. However, two days ago, the usual dosage did not alleviate my headache, prompting me to increase my intake to 1200mg, which my doctor had permitted in such instances. Unfortunately, I had been occupied with work and realized that I had skipped breakfast entirely, intending to grab a snack later on, which led to me taking the medication on an empty stomach. Initially, I thought there would be no adverse effects since I had taken this higher dosage before, even if it was with food. To my surprise, I began experiencing hot flashes and vomiting, rendering me unable to retain any food throughout that day. The following day was slightly better as I managed to eat all my meals, yet I still felt nauseous after each one. By today, I found myself vomiting again after breakfast. Additionally, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pains in my stomach, akin to cramping sensations. Historically, I have not suffered from any significant stomach problems. I do not smoke or consume alcohol, and last week, I engaged in more physical activities than usual, including running and yoga, although I am uncertain if this could be connected to my current symptoms. I am perplexed by what might be occurring. Could my nausea be a result of taking ibuprofen on an empty stomach and causing irritation, or might there be another underlying issue?
Answers (1)
2/16/2026, 3:30:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing nausea and vomiting likely related to taking ibuprofen on an empty stomach, especially after increasing your dosage. Let's break this down and address your concerns.
Key Points:
- Ibuprofen Use on an Empty Stomach: Taking ibuprofen without food can irritate the stomach lining, leading to symptoms like nausea and cramping.
- Recent Increase in Physical Activity: Increased exercise can also impact how your body reacts to medications, but it’s less likely to be the primary cause of your current symptoms.
- Ongoing Symptoms: Continued nausea and vomiting warrant immediate attention to prevent dehydration and further discomfort.
Explanation:
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause gastrointestinal irritation, resulting in symptoms like nausea, stomach cramps, and vomiting, particularly when taken without food. Given your increase to 1200mg and the timing of your doses without meals, this could explain why you're feeling unwell. While your symptoms might be due to the ibuprofen, it's also important to monitor for any other potential underlying issues, especially since you have a history of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH).
Next Steps:
- Hydrate: Focus on staying hydrated by sipping clear fluids (like water or broth) throughout the day. Avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks as they may worsen the irritation.
- Avoid Ibuprofen Temporarily: Stop taking ibuprofen for now. Switch to a milder pain relief option, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), but ensure it is safe considering your existing conditions.
- Eat Small, Frequent Meals: When you eat, try consuming small, bland meals to see if this reduces nausea. Foods like bananas, rice, or toast can be easier on the stomach.
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms. If vomiting persists, or if you experience severe stomach pain, increase in heart rate, or any other concerning symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention promptly.
- Discuss with Your Doctor: When possible, consider reaching out to your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and any adjustments needed in your pain management plan, especially due to your prior conditions.
Remember, taking care of your overall well-being is essential, so don’t hesitate to take the necessary steps for recovery. If you need more specific guidance, I'm here to help.
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