Nausea and Vomiting (cont.)
How is the source of nausea or vomiting diagnosed?
The healthcare provider will try to find the underlying illness that is causing the
symptoms of nausea and vomiting. At the same time, steps will be taken to treat
the symptoms and prevent dehydration.
Any testing will likely be directed to finding the underlying diagnosis.
However, blood tests may be taken to assess whether the electrolyte balance in
the body has been disturbed due to dehydration from continued vomiting.
A urinalysis may be done. Concentrated urine is associated with dehydration
as the kidneys try to hold on to water in the body.
Ketones in the urine are also
a sign of dehydration.
How is nausea or vomiting treated?
Symptomatic treatment may occur while the underlying illness is being
investigated because ideally, nausea and vomiting should resolve when the cause
of the symptoms resolves.
Nausea and vomiting are often made worse when the patient is dehydrated,
resulting in a vicious cycle. The nausea makes it difficult to drink fluid,
making the dehydration worse, which then increases the nausea. Intravenous
fluids may be provided to correct this issue.
There are a variety of anti-nausea medications (antiemetics) that may be
prescribed. They can be administered in different ways depending upon the patient's ability to take them. Medications are available by pill, liquid,
or
tablets that dissolve on or under the tongue, by intravenous or intramuscular
injection, or by rectal suppository.
Common medications used to control nausea and vomiting include promethazine
(Phenergan), prochlorperazine (Compazine),
droperidol (Inapsine) metoclopramide
(Reglan), and ondansetron (Zofran). The decision as to which medication to use
will depend on the specific situation.
Nausea and Vomiting At A Glance
- Nausea and vomiting are symptoms, not a disease. The underlying cause
of the illness should be identified and treated.
- Symptom control is important both for comfort's sake and to prevent
dehydration.
- Dehydration in itself can worsen the nausea and vomiting.
- Medication may be available to control symptoms.
Last Editorial Review: 4/29/2008
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