Seeking Help for Elderly Parent's Persistent Nausea: Which Specialist to Consult?

An elderly person (80 years old) has recently experienced dry cough. Which specialist should they see? Anxious family members?

Dr.
Liao: Hello, my father has been experiencing dry nausea for the past three weeks, even right after eating, but he hasn't vomited.
He has mild to moderate dementia, and we have visited several clinics without any improvement (some suggested gastrointestinal gas, while others mentioned norovirus).
Recently, the frequency of his dry nausea has increased, and his appetite has worsened.
Which specialty should we consult? We are unsure which department to visit.
Thank you for your response, anxious daughter.

mimi, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/02

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, based on your description, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation.
Additionally, it is important to monitor for any signs of electrolyte imbalance in the elderly.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/05/02

More Info

Dear Concerned Daughter,
I understand your distress regarding your father's persistent nausea and the challenges you face in seeking appropriate medical care for him. Given that he has been experiencing dry heaving for the past three weeks, along with a decline in appetite, it is crucial to address these symptoms promptly, especially considering his diagnosis of mild to moderate dementia.

In this situation, the best course of action would be to consult a gastroenterologist. This specialist focuses on the digestive system and its disorders, which includes conditions that could be causing your father's nausea. Since he has already seen multiple clinics without satisfactory results, a gastroenterologist can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of his gastrointestinal health. They may conduct tests such as an endoscopy, ultrasound, or other imaging studies to identify any underlying issues such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even more serious conditions that could be contributing to his symptoms.

Additionally, given your father's cognitive challenges, it may be beneficial to involve a geriatrician in his care. Geriatricians specialize in the health care of older adults and are well-versed in managing multiple health issues that often accompany aging, including dementia. They can help coordinate care between specialists and ensure that your father's overall health is being monitored, taking into account both his physical and cognitive conditions.

It is also important to consider that nausea can sometimes be a side effect of medications, especially if your father is taking any drugs for his dementia or other health issues. Make sure to review his medication list with the healthcare provider, as adjustments may be necessary.

In the meantime, there are some supportive measures you can take to help alleviate his nausea. Encourage small, frequent meals rather than large ones, and focus on bland foods that are easier to digest. Staying hydrated is also essential, so ensure he is drinking enough fluids. Ginger tea or ginger candies can sometimes help with nausea as well.

Lastly, if you notice any worsening of his symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or signs of dehydration, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires urgent care.

I hope this information helps guide you in seeking the appropriate care for your father. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to support both you and your father during this challenging time. Please take care of yourself as well, as caring for a loved one can be emotionally taxing.

Best wishes for your father's health and your peace of mind.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams
[Your Title or Credentials, if applicable]

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