They don’t always talk about health risks.
Nausea and vomiting do not always indicate a health threat, but can often be a symptom of serious illness. Therapist Oksana Drapkina told me when it’s definitely not worth delaying a visit to the doctor.
Nausea and vomiting are symptoms that you want to get rid of as soon as possible. According to scientists, nausea and vomiting developed during the evolutionary process as a defense against ingestion or absorption of potentially toxic substances.
It is noteworthy that even the sound or smell of other people’s vomit can cause a similar response in others. It is believed that this trait was also important for primates that seek food in small groups. If one of the flock reacted to food, a similar response was manifested in relatives. Such a reflex helps increase the chances of survival, says therapist Oksana Drapkina.
The most common causes of nausea and vomiting
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, gastroenteritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, stomach ulcer and others). In this case, nausea usually occurs immediately after eating, may be accompanied by heartburn or abdominal pain. A person feels relief after vomiting.
Food poisoning. Nausea and vomiting appear 1-8 hours after eating, repeated repeatedly. Often combined with severe abdominal pain, diarrhea (loose stools), headache and general weakness.
Toxicosis of pregnant women. Most women experience nausea during the first trimester of pregnancy. Changes in smell and appetite may also be involved.
Side effects of medicines. Many drugs, especially those used in chemotherapy, can cause nausea.
Excessive drinking and other psychoactive substances. Sometimes even cigarettes can make you feel sick. Vestibular disorders such as motion sickness (“seasickness”).
Strong emotional stress.
Migraine. Migraines are characterized by nausea, headache, increased sensitivity to smells and noise. In children, nausea and vomiting often occurs during viral diseases or if you are allergic to milk.
“If nausea is caused by stress, bad smells, or after driving in a car, fresh air, cold water, or tea with mint, ginger, sour or peppermint candies can help,” says Oksana Drapkina.
In the presence of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, exclude spicy, fried, smoked, fatty foods from the diet, eat small portions several times a day. Do not lie down or engage in physical activity immediately after eating.
When is it time to see a doctor
You should definitely seek medical attention if nausea and vomiting recur repeatedly within a day in children and two days in adults. Another good reason is the suspicion of pregnancy. In addition, a doctor is needed if you have signs of dehydration. This is a strong thirst, dry mouth, rare urination with dark urine, severe weakness.
And, of course, a doctor is needed if you have been suffering from nausea for a long time and notice rapid weight loss.
In some cases, emergency medical attention is needed. So, it is necessary if:
there is blood in the vomit (red or the color of “coffee grounds”); vomiting smells like feces; have severe pain in the chest, abdomen, or lower back; there was difficulty in breathing; a high temperature has risen, diarrhea has begun; there is a severe headache and / or stiff neck (difficulty tilting the head forward); impaired consciousness and / or coordination of movements.
“During an attack of vomiting, do not leave a person alone! If the victim is unconscious, tilt his head to the side so that he does not choke on vomit. After each attack, you need to rinse your mouth with cool water, ”concluded Oksana Drapkina.
Also Read: 7 Easy Ways To Get Rid Of Nausea Without Medicines
10 simple ways to keep your brain young – learn about them from the video:
2023-07-31 15:29:29
#Professor #Drapkina #named #common #nausea #vomiting
