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- Medical history and physical examination: A comprehensive history and physical examination can often reveal the cause of nausea and vomiting, making further evaluation unnecessary. Doctors will ask about the individual's medical history, surgeries, and medications. A thorough history of recreational drug and alcohol use or abuse is equally important.
- A complete physical examination will include a neurological examination and brain function tests. Acute symptoms generally are the result of infectious, inflammatory, or unknown causes. Evaluation first focuses on detecting any emergencies or complications that require hospitalization, such as bowel obstruction, cancer, opiate addiction, or increased pressure in the head.
- Blood tests: Blood tests will be performed to determine if the individual is dehydrated. Blood tests may include electrolyte levels, such as sodium, potassium, and chloride. Tests for kidney function may also be performed, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine levels.
- Diagnostic tests: Further testing, such as upper endoscopy or computed tomography of the abdomen, may be used by a doctor when an underlying condition, such as bowel obstruction or peptic ulcer, may be the cause of the nausea and vomiting. Upper endoscopy uses a long, narrow tube with a small attached camera that is threaded down the throat and esophagus into the stomach and duodenum. With this instrument, the doctor can view the upper digestive tract and identify an ulcer. If the doctor detects an ulcer, they may remove small tissue samples near the ulcer. Possible complications of upper endoscopy include bleeding and puncture of the stomach lining. However, such complications are rare. Most people will have nothing more than a mild sore throat after the procedure. The procedure takes 20-30 minutes. Because the individual will be sedated, they will need to rest at the endoscopy facility for 1-2 hours until the medication wears off. It is recommended to have a friend or loved one drive. Computerized tomography (CT) scan is an x-ray that uses computer technology and can be enhanced with the injection of a contrast dye. Computerized tomography (CT) scans allow for multiple X-rays to be taken from different angles to create a three-dimensional image of internal body structures. CT is used to show abnormalities in bones and soft tissue. CT scan can be used to look at the abdomen in individuals with severe nausea and vomiting to determine if bowel obstruction may be the cause.
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