Many digestive problems are caused by viruses, but they usually do not last very long. Of course, you are apt not to be very comfortable while you have the symptoms. In most cases, you can treat the problem yourself. When nausea, vomiting, diarrhea become serious and long-lasting, it is time to see a doctor.

Why Your Body Vomits

When a virus or bacteria enters your digestive tract, it will automatically attempt to get rid of it. The process will continue until most of the problem has been eliminated. You should not take medications to stop diarrhea or vomiting unless your doctor lets you know it is alright to do so.

Causes

There are many different things that can trigger nausea and vomiting. It may be different for different people, but some things that are often the cause, include:

  • Motion sickness
  • Rotavirus and norovirus
  • A migraine
  • Stomach flu
  • Morning sickness
  • Emotional stress
  • Overeating
  • General anesthesia
  • Intestinal obstruction

Other causes may include:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Alcohol abuse disorder
  • Anorexia nervosa
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Bulimia nervosa
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis
  • Dizziness
  • Ear infection
  • Fever
  • Food poisoning
  • Medications
  • Meningitis
  • Peptic ulcer
  • Radiation therapy
  • Severe pain
  • And more.

Diarrhea is usually caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, medications, artificial sweeteners, lactose intolerance, and surgery. Travelers often get diarrhea from parasites and bacteria in the food and water.

Tips While Sick

While you have difficulties keeping your food in, you likely are not going to want to eat a lot of food. If you are vomiting often, do not eat anything, but take sips of clear liquids to avoid becoming dehydrated. Once the vomiting stops you can drink more liquids. Avoid liquids with a lot of sugar because it will likely make your diarrhea worse.

When to See a Doctor

At some point, your condition may become worse. When you see the following symptoms, you should see a doctor:

  • Severe abdominal pain for more than four hours
  • Vomiting with a severe headache
  • Not able to hold down even sips of water
  • You have a fever above 102 F
  • Bloody or black vomit or stool
  • Not able to hold down any liquid for more than 12 hours
  • Vomiting for more than 24 hours
  • Yellowish color to your skin and eyes
  • Vomiting after having an injury to the head
  • Vomiting for more than 24 hours
  • Unable to urinate.

Risk Factors

The people who are at the greatest risk for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea are those who are usually the most susceptible to illness. This includes children under five, seniors, and people with weak immune systems.

How to Avoid These Health Issues

Many of these health issues can be avoided by washing your hands often. Use soap for more than 20 seconds or a hand sanitizer with alcohol. Stay away from crowds or group situations when you know common illnesses are going around. Your doctor may also be able to give you antibiotics if you are going to be traveling.

The Silver Star Urgent Care clinic can help you when you or a family member has nausea, vomiting, diarrhea problems. All of our doctors are Board-certified, and we can treat most health issues and many emergencies. We welcome walk-ins and you will be seen quickly by a medical professional.

Contact info

228 Beach 20th Street Far Rockaway, NY 11691

(516) 750-0252

info@SilverStarUrgentCare.com