Post-Drinking Vomiting: What Could That Hard Substance Be? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

More Info

---

The experience of vomiting after drinking, especially when it involves expelling a hard substance, can be quite alarming. In your case, it sounds like you have a history of gastrointestinal discomfort, possibly linked to a hereditary condition of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While you have undergone a colonoscopy that yielded normal results, it is important to consider the implications of your symptoms and the nature of the hard substance you expelled.

When you vomit, especially after consuming alcohol, the contents of your stomach can include not only food but also bile, which is a digestive fluid produced by the liver. The presence of bile in your vomit can indicate that your stomach was empty or that the alcohol consumption led to irritation of the stomach lining, prompting the expulsion of bile. The hard substance you described as "L-shaped" could potentially be a few different things.

1. Food Particles: If you had consumed solid food prior to drinking, it is possible that undigested food particles could have formed a hard mass, especially if they were mixed with bile and other gastric contents. Alcohol can slow down the digestive process, leading to the formation of such masses.

2. Stomach Concretions: In some cases, hard masses can form in the stomach due to the accumulation of indigestible materials, such as fibers or other food components. These are sometimes referred to as "trichobezoars" (from hair) or "phytobezoars" (from plant material). However, these are less common and typically require a more chronic condition to develop.

3. Mucus or Gastric Debris: The stomach lining produces mucus, and in cases of irritation or inflammation (such as gastritis), this mucus can thicken and form lumps. This could also explain the hard texture you experienced.

4. Possible Ulcer or Lesion: Given your history of gastrointestinal issues, it is also important to consider that the hard substance could be related to an ulcer or lesion in the stomach. If the lining of the stomach is compromised, it could lead to the formation of hardened tissue or scabs that might be expelled during vomiting.

Since you mentioned that you felt better after expelling this substance, it suggests that it may have been causing some obstruction or irritation. However, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider, particularly a gastroenterologist, to further investigate the underlying causes of your symptoms. They may recommend an upper endoscopy (EGD) to visualize the stomach and esophagus directly, which can help identify any abnormalities such as ulcers, strictures, or other lesions.

In the meantime, managing your alcohol intake and monitoring your symptoms is advisable. If you experience any further episodes of vomiting, especially if they include blood or if you have ongoing abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, consider discussing your GERD and any dietary changes that could help alleviate your symptoms, such as avoiding trigger foods and beverages, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating.

In summary, while the hard substance you expelled could be a variety of things, it is essential to consult with a medical professional to ensure a thorough evaluation and appropriate management of your gastrointestinal health.