Nausea and vomiting. We've all experienced these GI symptoms, and when they happen to you or a loved one, you want relief. New York, 
NY, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Daniel Alpert treats symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Usually related to an underlying condition, these gastric upsets can be controlled. However, you also should know when to call Dr. Alpert about them to avoid more serious complications.
Treating nausea and vomiting
Both nausea and vomiting can occur when the lining of the stomach or GI tract may be irritated by certain foods, medications, alcohol and smoking as well as an underlying infectious, inflammatory or malignant process. The characteristic queasiness of nausea may be accompanied or caused by vertigo, or dizziness. Often, nausea is followed by vomiting, or the sudden (and sometimes repeated) emptying of stomach contents.
Nausea may resolve on its own, particularly when it's caused by the hormonal surges associated with early pregnancy. When severe, however, your New York gastroenterologist may prescribe medication to prevent or stop severe nausea and vomiting.
If vomiting does occur, Dr. Alpert recommends some tried and true methods of soothing that irritated GI tract, controlling fever and avoiding dangerous dehydration. They are:
- Rest and elevation of the head
- Slowly reintroducing fluids such as water, sports drinks, flat soda pop, broth, or juice
- Monitoring fever (call the doctor if fever is persistent and over 102 for a child under six or 100 or more for an older child, teen, or adult, say experts at the Cleveland Clinic)
- Monitoring urine output, level of consciousness, pain, pulse rate, and diarrhea
When vomiting stops completely, you may re-introduce bland foods such as rice and crackers. Eat them in small amounts as tolerated.
If it's persistent...
Dr. Alpert may order various GI tests, such as an endoscopy, to understand underlying causes for nausea and vomiting. Some nausea and vomiting indicate a medical emergency, and you should get to the nearest hospital ER as soon as possible. These conditions include:
- Concussion
- Hematoma
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Food poisoning
- Appendicitis
Whenever you are concerned that your GI symptoms are severe, unusual or not responsive to typical interventions, call Dr. Alpert's office right away.
Feel better
Know the reasons for your nausea and vomiting and how to relieve them. For a consultation with Dr. Alpert and his caring team in New York, NY, please call (212) 599-7910.