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- Underlying conditions: Nausea and vomiting are usually harmless, but in some cases may be a sign of a more serious illness. Some examples of serious conditions that may result in nausea or vomiting include concussions or brain injuries, meningitis (infection of the membrane linings of the brain), intestinal blockage, appendicitis, and brain tumors.
- Dehydration: Another concern is dehydration. Adults have a lower risk of becoming dehydrated because they can usually detect the symptoms of dehydration, including increased thirst and dry lips or mouth. Children have a greater risk of becoming dehydrated, especially if they also have diarrhea. Young children are often unable to communicate symptoms of dehydration. Adults caring for sick children should be aware of these visible signs of dehydration: dry lips and mouth, sunken eyes, and rapid breathing or pulse. In infants, decreased urination and a sunken fontanelle (soft spot on the head) may occur.
- Hyperemesis gravidarum: Recurrent vomiting in pregnancy can lead to a serious condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, where the mother may develop fluid and mineral imbalances that can endanger her life or that of her unborn child. Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by persistent vomiting, protein in the urine, severe weight loss, and dehydration. This condition affects approximately 0.5-2% pregnant women and, if left untreated, can lead to coma, convulsions, and fetal loss. Up to 60% of women who suffer from hyperemesis gravidarum develop depression. Treatment may involve anti-nausea medications (such as 5-HT3 inhibitors), intravenous (IV) fluids (such as normal saline), enteral nutrition (such as Osmolite ® or Ensure ®). Enteral nutrition is a way to provide food to the body through a tube placed in the nose, the stomach, or the small intestine.
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