Persistent Vomiting After Meals: Possible Causes and Concerns

Persistent vomiting

Doctor, my husband is 33 years old and has been experiencing persistent vomiting, especially right after meals.
He doesn't eat much, so I don't think it's due to overeating.
This has been going on for nearly two weeks.
I accompanied him to see a doctor, but the doctor said he has a shallow stomach, which can cause vomiting.
However, I strongly disagree with this assessment.
His vomiting is quite severe; sometimes he only eats one meal a day, and he vomits right after eating.
Two days ago, his heart rate at night reached 107 beats per minute, and I am really worried.
Could this be a serious condition? Can vomiting be a symptom of stomach cancer?

Selene, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/13

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, if you have not experienced vomiting in the past and have recently started to do so, it is essential to rule out some organic diseases such as peptic ulcers, pancreatic disorders, liver and biliary diseases, renal failure, intestinal obstruction, etc.
Additionally, conditions like diabetes with ketoacidosis, electrolyte imbalances, severe infections, vertigo, central nervous system diseases, heavy metal poisoning, and medications can also cause vomiting.
Gastric cancer may also present with vomiting.
Based on your description, I strongly recommend that your husband seek medical attention promptly for a thorough examination.
Sincerely, Dr.
Yuan Hongdao, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2005/05/13

More Info

Persistent vomiting after meals can be a distressing symptom and may indicate various underlying medical conditions. Given your husband's age and the severity of his symptoms, it is essential to consider a range of potential causes, from benign to more serious conditions.

Firstly, the fact that your husband experiences vomiting shortly after eating, especially if it occurs consistently after every meal, warrants further investigation. While the initial assessment by the doctor suggested that he has a "shallow stomach," which may contribute to his symptoms, this explanation may not fully account for the severity and persistence of the vomiting.
Several potential causes for persistent vomiting after meals include:
1. Gastric Outlet Obstruction: This condition occurs when there is a blockage at the exit of the stomach, preventing food from moving into the small intestine. This can lead to vomiting, especially after meals. Causes of gastric outlet obstruction can include peptic ulcers, tumors, or strictures.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD can cause symptoms such as vomiting, especially if the stomach contents reflux back into the esophagus. This can lead to irritation and discomfort, prompting vomiting.

3. Gastroparesis: This condition involves delayed gastric emptying, where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount of food.

4. Food Intolerance or Allergies: Certain food intolerances or allergies can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting. Common culprits include lactose intolerance and gluten sensitivity.

5. Infections: Gastrointestinal infections, whether viral or bacterial, can lead to nausea and vomiting. If your husband has had any recent gastrointestinal infections, this could be a contributing factor.

6. Psychogenic Causes: Stress and anxiety can also manifest as gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea and vomiting. If there have been significant stressors in your husband's life, this could be a contributing factor.

7. Serious Conditions: While it is less common, persistent vomiting can be a symptom of more serious conditions, including malignancies such as gastric cancer. However, this is typically accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss, abdominal pain, or changes in appetite.

Given your concerns about the possibility of gastric cancer, it is crucial to communicate these worries to your husband's healthcare provider. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as an upper endoscopy (EGD), imaging studies (like an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan), or laboratory tests to evaluate for infections or other underlying conditions.

In the meantime, it may be helpful to keep a symptom diary, noting the frequency and timing of the vomiting, any associated symptoms (like abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or weight loss), and what foods were consumed prior to the episodes. This information can provide valuable insights to the healthcare provider.

In summary, while there are many potential causes for your husband's persistent vomiting after meals, it is essential to pursue further evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and alleviate symptoms. If the vomiting continues or worsens, or if new symptoms arise, seeking immediate medical attention is advisable.

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