116
FAMILY ILLNESS
Vomiting( adults)
For children under 12, see p. 118 Irritation or inflammation of the digestive tract is the most common cause of vomiting. But vomiting may also be triggered by conditions affecting the brain or by an inner-ear disorder, or it can be a side effect of medication. If you suffer from frequent episodes of vomiting, you should consult your doctor.
! Danger signs
Dial 911 or call EMS if your vomit contains blood, which may appear in any of the following forms:
• Bright red streaks.
• Black material that resembles coffee grounds.
• Blood clots.
START |
Have you suffered from other episodes of vomiting?
Previous episodes
Single episode
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ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW You may have acute glaucoma( a painful, rapid rise in fluid pressure in the eye), especially if your vision is also blurred.
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ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR You may have a digestive tract disorder.
Do you have a headache?
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Do you have pain in the abdomen? |
Do you have pain in or around an eye? |
Headache
No headache
|
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Severe pain |
Eye pain |
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Mild pain
No pain
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW You could have a serious abdominal condition, such as appendicitis.
No eye pain
ACTION
DIAL 911 OR CALL EMS
! You may have had a stroke. Your symptoms may also be caused by labyrinthitis( inflamed inner ear).
• You can minimize the symptoms of labyrinthitis by lying down or moving as little as possible.
Do you have any of the following?
Temperature of 100.4 ° F( 38 ° C) or above
Diarrhea
Dizziness
None of the above