Nausea And Vomiting Specialist
Digestive Disease Clinic, LLC
Charles A. Obioha, MD
Gastroenterologist Located in Rockville, MD
Chronic nausea and vomiting are disruptive and debilitating symptoms brought on by a variety of issues ranging from viruses and inflammatory conditions like colitis to obstructions in your gastrointestinal tract. At Digestive Disease Clinic, LLC, with locations in Rockville, Silver Spring, and Bowie, Maryland, Dr. Charles Obioha, provides expert diagnosis and treatments to restore your health and relieve your symptoms. Call to schedule an appointment today to learn more.
Nausea and Vomiting Q & A
What causes nausea and vomiting?
If you have chronic nausea or are frequently vomiting, it could be caused by a virus or food poisoning, or be a sign of pregnancy or a serious health condition. Some of the gastrointestinal conditions that cause nausea and vomiting include:
- Ulcers
- Gastroparesis
- Gallbladder disease
- Certain cancers and chemotherapy
- Obstruction in your digestive tract
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Hiatal hernias
- Irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, and other inflammatory conditions
You may experience nausea and vomiting at the same time, although the symptoms can develop independently of each other.
When should I see a doctor for nausea and vomiting?
You should make an appointment with Dr. Obioha if your nausea and vomiting lasts for more than two days and doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications or dietary changes. If you’ve had unexplained weight loss or have symptoms of dehydration like dry mouth, extreme thirst, dark urine, or lightheadedness, call Digestive Disease Center and request a same-day appointment.
You should seek emergency treatment if your nausea and vomiting are accompanied by chest pain, high fever, rectal bleeding, or if your vomit includes fecal matter.
How is the cause of chronic nausea or vomiting diagnosed?
Dr. Obioha diagnoses the cause of nausea and vomiting with a physical exam and a series of tests that may include blood work, urine and stool samples, upper endoscopy, and colonoscopy.
What are the available treatments for nausea and vomiting?
Dr. Obioha provides customized treatments to resolve your symptoms as well as heal the underlying condition causing your nausea and vomiting. For example, Dr. Obioha may give you an IV to address dehydration or prescribe a bland diet and medications to reduce your symptoms. If a virus causes your symptoms, you should rest and allow your body to fight off the illness.
If another condition is causing your nausea and vomiting, Dr. Obioha prescribes additional treatments or procedures to repair and restore your digestive tract. For example, if your symptoms are due to GERD or a hiatal hernia, you may need a minimally invasive procedure to repair the hernia or your esophageal sphincter. Or, if you have an inflammatory condition, you may need to adjust your diet and take medicines to reduce inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract.
Whatever the cause of your nausea and vomiting, Dr. Obioha offers comprehensive diagnostic tests and customized treatments to resolve your symptoms and restore your health. Call Digestive Disease Clinic, LLC to schedule an appointment today to learn more.