VOMITING( ADULTS) 117
! Vomiting and medications
If you are taking any oral medication, including oral contraceptives, an episode of vomiting may reduce the effectiveness of the drug because your body cannot absorb the active ingredients. If you use oral contraceptives, you will need to use an additional form of contraception such as condoms for some time after the vomiting has stopped. Follow the instructions provided with the oral contraceptives or consult your doctor if you are not sure what to do. You should also see your doctor if you are taking any other prescribed medicine and have been vomiting.
Have you eaten or drunk any of the following?
An unusually large or rich meal
A large amount of alcohol
Food that may have been contaminated
None of the above
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You probably have gastritis( inflammation of the stomach lining).
• Take over-the-counter antacids to neutralize the acid in the stomach.
• Eat small meals at regular intervals.
• Stop drinking alcohol until you are better.
• If you smoke, stop.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if you are no better in 2 days or if other symptoms develop.
ACTION
GO TO ANOTHER CHART Headache, p. 84
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You may have a case of gastroenteritis.
• Follow the advice for preventing dehydration( p. 165).
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if you are no better in 2 days or if other symptoms develop.
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You may have food poisoning.
• Follow the advice for preventing dehydration( p. 165).
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if you are no better in 2 days or if other symptoms develop.
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS Your symptoms may be a side effect of the medication.
• Stop taking any overthe-counter medicines but continue to take prescribed medication unless advised to stop by your doctor.
Are you taking any medication?
Medication
No medication
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS if you cannot identify a possible cause for your vomiting from this chart.