Abdominal distension, followed by tachycardia and then vomiting?
Hello Doctor, since last week I have been experiencing bloating and rapid heartbeat after meals, which leads to vomiting.
After vomiting, I feel normal again.
Two years ago, I had an endoscopy that showed mild inflammation.
Last week, I consulted a gastroenterologist who diagnosed me with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
After taking medication, I felt somewhat better, but today at noon, after eating at work, I started experiencing vomiting symptoms again about half an hour later (I had hot and sour soup with rice for lunch).
Last week, I also tested for Helicobacter pylori.
Could you please tell me if having Helicobacter pylori could cause these symptoms (dizziness, bloating, vomiting)? Should I temporarily stick to a bland diet since I am currently only experiencing vomiting?
Xiao Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/22
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Helicobacter pylori infection itself is asymptomatic; however, it can lead to conditions such as gastritis, gastric ulcers, or duodenal ulcers, which do present symptoms.
Recently, it appears to be a recurrence of gastritis, so a mild and non-irritating diet is recommended.
Reply Date: 2016/06/22
More Info
Experiencing bloating, rapid heartbeat, and vomiting after meals can be distressing and may indicate underlying gastrointestinal or cardiovascular issues. Based on your description, it seems you have a history of gastrointestinal problems, including mild gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can contribute to your current symptoms.
Understanding Your Symptoms:
1. Bloating: This can occur due to various reasons, including overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming certain types of foods that produce gas. In your case, the bloating may also be linked to your history of gastritis and GERD. When the stomach lining is inflamed, it can lead to improper digestion and increased gas production.
2. Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia): A rapid heartbeat after eating can be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that the body diverts blood flow to the digestive system after a meal, which can lead to a temporary increase in heart rate. Additionally, anxiety or discomfort from bloating can also trigger a sympathetic nervous system response, leading to tachycardia.
3. Vomiting: This symptom can be a response to various triggers, including irritation of the stomach lining, excessive pressure in the stomach due to bloating, or even a reaction to certain foods. In your case, the vomiting following meals could be related to the combination of bloating and rapid heartbeat, as the body may be reacting to discomfort.
Role of Helicobacter Pylori:
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach lining and is known to cause gastritis and peptic ulcers. If you have tested positive for H. pylori, it could indeed contribute to your symptoms. H. pylori infection can lead to inflammation of the stomach lining, resulting in bloating, discomfort, and nausea, which can escalate to vomiting, especially after meals.
Dietary Recommendations:
Given your symptoms, it would be wise to consider dietary modifications. Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones can help reduce bloating and discomfort. Additionally, avoiding spicy, acidic, or fatty foods may alleviate symptoms, especially if you are experiencing GERD.
Medication and Treatment:
Since you mentioned that you have seen a gastroenterologist and have been prescribed medication, it’s important to continue following their recommendations. Medications for GERD, such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers, can help reduce stomach acid and alleviate symptoms. If you have been prescribed antibiotics for H. pylori, completing the course is crucial for effective treatment.
When to Seek Further Medical Attention:
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. Persistent vomiting, significant weight loss, or severe abdominal pain should not be ignored. Additionally, if you experience symptoms such as chest pain or severe dizziness, seek immediate medical attention, as these could indicate more serious conditions.
Conclusion:
In summary, your symptoms of bloating, rapid heartbeat, and vomiting after meals could be interconnected and may stem from your history of gastritis and GERD, potentially exacerbated by H. pylori infection. Implementing dietary changes, adhering to prescribed medications, and monitoring your symptoms closely will be key in managing your condition. If your symptoms do not improve, further evaluation by a healthcare professional may be necessary to rule out other underlying issues.
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