What causes persistent nausea and vomiting during a cold?

Jan 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingli
Introduction
Persistent nausea and vomiting during a cold may be caused by drug side effects, fever, loss of appetite, frequent coughing, or gastrointestinal discomfort. If any of these conditions occur, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. When having a cold, people usually take medications to relieve symptoms, such as antipyretics, antihistamines, or cough suppressants. It is recommended to maintain a light diet, drink plenty of water, and get adequate rest to support recovery.

Generally, persistent nausea and vomiting during a cold may be caused by medication side effects, fever, loss of appetite, frequent coughing, or gastrointestinal discomfort. If any of these conditions occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific causes are as follows:

1. Medication Side Effects

When experiencing a cold, people often use medications to relieve symptoms, such as antipyretics, antihistamines, or cough suppressants. Some medications may irritate the digestive system, leading to nausea and vomiting. It is advisable to consult a doctor for dosage adjustments or to switch to milder alternatives.

2. Fever

Fever caused by a cold raises body temperature and may lead to dehydration, which can affect normal gastric acidity and mucosal condition, resulting in nausea. Fever can be managed with medications such as ibuprofen tablets, acetaminophen tablets, or Ganmao Qing capsules, under a doctor's guidance.

3. Loss of Appetite

Symptoms of a cold often include sore throat and reduced appetite. Eating less may allow stomach acid to irritate the gastric lining, causing nausea. Patients may also feel weak, fatigued, and experience weight loss. Treatment options under medical supervision include antiviral oral solution, Lianhua Qingwen capsules, or Ganmaoling granules.

4. Frequent Coughing

Coughing due to a cold may stimulate the stomach, especially when abdominal muscles contract during coughing episodes. This stimulation can induce nausea. Persistent coughing may also cause sore throat, chest discomfort, and disrupt sleep and regular eating. Medications such as Su Huang Zhi Ke capsules, pentoxyverine citrate tablets, or compound licorice tablets may be used under a doctor’s direction.

5. Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Systemic inflammatory responses triggered by a cold may spread to the gastrointestinal tract, causing discomfort such as stomach pain and bloating. Symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, or constipation may also occur, contributing to overall malaise. Treatments based on medical advice may include smectite powder, lactase tablets, or vitamin B6 tablets.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a light diet, drink plenty of water, and ensure adequate rest to support recovery.

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