Persistent Vomiting and Neurological Symptoms: When to Seek Help - Neurology

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It sounds like you are experiencing a complex set of symptoms that are significantly impacting your quality of life. Persistent vomiting for over four months, especially when gastrointestinal examinations have ruled out organic causes, raises concerns that warrant further investigation. The symptoms you describe—persistent vomiting, headaches, dizziness, memory issues, and visual disturbances—suggest that there may be an underlying neurological or psychological component to your condition.

Given that you have already undergone extensive gastrointestinal evaluations, including abdominal ultrasound, gastroscopy, upper gastrointestinal series, and CT scans, and that these tests have not revealed any significant abnormalities, it is essential to consider other potential causes. The fact that your doctors suspect a connection to psychological or neurological issues indicates that further exploration in these areas is necessary.


Neurological Considerations
Your symptoms, particularly the headaches localized to the back of your head, dizziness, and visual disturbances (such as double vision), could suggest a neurological condition that needs to be assessed by a neurologist. Conditions such as migraines, vestibular disorders, or even more serious issues like increased intracranial pressure or neurological disorders could be contributing to your symptoms. The presence of memory issues and difficulty recalling names or events also raises concerns about cognitive function, which should be evaluated.


Psychological Factors
On the psychological side, chronic vomiting can sometimes be associated with conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, or even somatic symptom disorder, where psychological distress manifests as physical symptoms. Stress and emotional factors can significantly impact gastrointestinal function, leading to symptoms like nausea and vomiting. It’s important to consider whether there are any underlying emotional or psychological issues that may be contributing to your physical symptoms.


When to Seek Help
Given the complexity and persistence of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek a consultation with a neurologist. They can perform a thorough neurological examination, possibly including imaging studies like an MRI of the brain, to rule out any neurological conditions. Additionally, a neuropsychological evaluation may be beneficial to assess cognitive function and memory issues.

If neurological causes are ruled out, it may also be helpful to consult with a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can help determine if there are any psychological factors at play and suggest appropriate therapeutic interventions, which may include cognitive behavioral therapy or other forms of treatment.


Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms are concerning and warrant further evaluation by specialists in neurology and possibly psychiatry. Persistent vomiting, especially when accompanied by neurological symptoms, should not be ignored. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so I encourage you to seek help promptly. Keeping a detailed symptom diary, including the frequency and intensity of your vomiting, headaches, and any other associated symptoms, can be helpful for your healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating your condition effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a crucial step toward finding relief and understanding your health better.