Dry Heaving: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Regarding dry heaving?

Dear Dr.
Liao,
Last night (June 23), I experienced a respiratory infection that caused post-nasal drip into my throat.
I attempted to forcefully cough out the dripping mucus, which resulted in dry heaving (with the motion of vomiting but no actual vomit).
This vomiting reflex caused my heart rate to accelerate, and I felt a sense of fullness in my chest and head.
Subsequently, I experienced a dull pain in my stomach for several seconds (unsure if it was gastric cramping).
The entire episode lasted about 1 to 2 minutes.
I would like to ask Dr.
Liao:
1.
Based on general clinical experience, can the acceleration of heart rate, the feeling of fullness in the chest and head, and the dull stomach pain caused by the vomiting reflex lead to damage to the heart (such as vascular rupture), the thoracic cavity (including the esophagus and stomach), or the head?
2.
If there is damage to the aforementioned organs, would symptoms necessarily manifest?
3.
Currently, I have not experienced any symptoms.
What would be the best course of action? (e.g., seeking medical examination or continuous observation)
Thank you, Dr.
Liao.

Axiang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/24

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, strong coughing can increase intra-abdominal pressure, and it may occasionally be accompanied by dry heaving or even vomiting.
Although the occurrence of organ rupture is likely rare, caution is still advised, and it is recommended not to cough excessively.
It is more important to treat the underlying condition.
If discomfort persists, please seek medical evaluation as online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2019/06/24

More Info

Dry heaving, also known as retching, is a common physiological response that can occur due to various reasons, including respiratory infections, gastrointestinal disturbances, or even anxiety. It is characterized by the act of vomiting without the expulsion of any contents. In your case, it seems to have been triggered by post-nasal drip due to a respiratory infection, which is a common cause of irritation in the throat.

1. Potential Risks of Dry Heaving: The symptoms you experienced, such as increased heart rate, a feeling of fullness in the chest and head, and abdominal discomfort, are not uncommon during episodes of dry heaving. These symptoms can be attributed to the body's stress response to the act of retching. While it is generally not harmful, excessive or forceful dry heaving can lead to complications such as esophageal tears (Mallory-Weiss syndrome), muscle strain, or even gastrointestinal distress. However, the risk of severe complications like blood vessel rupture in the heart or chest is extremely low in healthy individuals.
2. Symptoms of Damage: If there were any significant injuries to the esophagus, stomach, or other organs, symptoms would typically manifest as severe pain, difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, or signs of internal bleeding (such as black, tarry stools). If you are not experiencing any of these symptoms, it is unlikely that there has been any serious damage.

3. Management and When to Seek Help: Since you are currently asymptomatic aside from the initial episode, it is advisable to monitor your condition. If you experience recurrent episodes of dry heaving, persistent abdominal pain, or any new symptoms such as fever, difficulty breathing, or changes in bowel habits, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. In the meantime, you can manage your symptoms by staying hydrated, avoiding irritants (like strong odors or spicy foods), and using over-the-counter medications to alleviate any nausea if necessary.

In summary, while dry heaving can be uncomfortable and alarming, it is often a temporary response to irritation. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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