When to See the Doctor about Nausea?

Tuesday, June 07, 2005

ROCHESTER, Minn. — A queasy stomach and the urge to vomit are terribly unpleasant. Fortunately, nausea — with or without vomiting — is often just the symptom of a mild sickness.

According to the June issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource, nausea also can indicate a number of illnesses, some serious. They can include gastrointestinal infections; digestive disorders such as ulcers, gallstones, bowel obstruction; and central nervous system problems such as meningitis or brain tumors.

If nausea or vomiting results from a minor illness, the best advice is to rest and treat the queasiness with clear liquids and bland foods.

If nausea and vomiting last for two or three days or prevent you from keeping down liquids for more than 24 hours, contact your doctor. Get prompt medical attention if you have:

- Blood in your vomit

- A fever above 101 F accompanied by a severe headache or stiff neck

- A recent head injury or loss of consciousness

- Confusion or decreased alertness

- Rapid breathing or pulse

If you're unsure what's causing your nausea or you think something serious may be to blame, seek medical help.

Erik Kaldor - Florida 904-953-2299

Lynn Closway - Arizona 480-301-4337

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Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource is published monthly to help women enjoy healthier, more productive lives. Revenue from subscriptions is used to support medical research at Mayo Clinic. To subscribe, please call 800-876-8633, extension 9PK1.

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