Vomiting: Possible Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Vomiting


Since around August of last year, I have been experiencing vomiting after overeating, intense exercise, stress, feeling down, or even when overly excited.
When I vomit, there is no bile present; it often consists of undigested food like bean sprouts and cabbage, appearing as if it hasn't been fully digested.
There are periods when I don't vomit, followed by times when I do.
After vomiting, I usually feel a bit better and less nauseous.
I would like to know what could be the possible causes.
My bowel movements are normal, and there are no other issues.

Mr. Fan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/03

Dr. Zhang Kebin reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology


Hello Mr.
Fan! You mentioned that you started experiencing vomiting around August of last year, and it has persisted for about four months now.
You noted that it tends to occur after overeating, intense exercise, during stressful situations, when feeling down, or when overly excited.
The vomit does not contain bile, and you often expel undigested food.
After vomiting, you feel somewhat better.
This sounds like chronic nausea and vomiting that may be related to emotional or activity triggers, and since there is no blood or bile in the vomit, I recommend visiting a hospital for evaluation.
It is important to rule out any dangerous factors or symptoms.
It could potentially be a functional issue related to emotional or sympathetic nervous system factors.
Some medications may help improve your condition.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2021/01/03

More Info


Vomiting can be a distressing symptom and can arise from a variety of causes, particularly in the context of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Based on your description, it seems that your vomiting episodes are triggered by specific situations such as overeating, intense physical activity, emotional stress, or excitement. This pattern suggests that your vomiting may be related to functional gastrointestinal disorders rather than a structural issue.

One possible explanation for your symptoms is functional dyspepsia, which is characterized by discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. This condition can be exacerbated by overeating or stress, leading to a sensation of fullness and the urge to vomit. The fact that you are vomiting undigested food, such as bean sprouts and cabbage, indicates that the food may not be adequately processed in your stomach, which can occur in functional dyspepsia.

Another potential cause could be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach contents, including food and acid, can flow back into the esophagus, leading to nausea and vomiting. However, you mentioned that you do not experience acid reflux or sour taste, which makes this less likely.
Gastroparesis is another condition to consider. It is characterized by delayed gastric emptying, which can lead to feelings of fullness, nausea, and vomiting of undigested food. This condition can be caused by various factors, including diabetes, certain medications, or idiopathic reasons. If your symptoms persist, it may be worthwhile to discuss this possibility with your healthcare provider.

Additionally, your symptoms could be related to anxiety or stress-related disorders. Emotional states can significantly impact gastrointestinal function, leading to symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. The connection between your emotional state and the onset of vomiting suggests that psychological factors may play a role in your symptoms.

Since your bowel movements are normal and you do not report any alarming symptoms such as weight loss, blood in the vomit, or severe abdominal pain, it is less likely that you have a serious underlying condition such as a gastrointestinal obstruction or malignancy. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek further evaluation.

In terms of management, here are some suggestions that may help alleviate your symptoms:
1. Dietary Modifications: Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals can help reduce the likelihood of vomiting. Avoiding trigger foods that may cause discomfort, such as greasy or spicy foods, can also be beneficial.

2. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial, especially if you are experiencing vomiting. Sipping clear fluids can help maintain hydration without overwhelming your stomach.

3. Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or cognitive-behavioral therapy can help manage stress and anxiety, potentially reducing the frequency of your vomiting episodes.

4. Medication: If your symptoms are severe or persistent, your healthcare provider may consider prescribing medications to help manage nausea or improve gastric motility.

5. Follow-Up: Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor your symptoms and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be concerning, they are likely related to functional gastrointestinal issues rather than a serious underlying condition. However, ongoing communication with your healthcare provider is vital to ensure appropriate management and to rule out any potential complications.

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