How does Chantix work to help quit smoking. What are the most common side effects of Chantix. Can Chantix cause serious neuropsychiatric or cardiovascular issues. How long do Chantix side effects typically last. What steps can be taken to minimize Chantix side effects.

The Mechanism of Action: How Chantix Aids Smoking Cessation

Chantix (varenicline) is a unique smoking cessation medication that has shown remarkable efficacy in helping smokers quit. But how exactly does it work?

Chantix functions as a partial agonist of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain. This means it both stimulates these receptors (like nicotine does) and blocks them from being fully activated by nicotine. This dual action results in two key benefits:

• Reduction of nicotine cravings
• Blocking the pleasurable effects of smoking

By attaching to nicotine receptors, Chantix helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms that often derail quit attempts. Simultaneously, it prevents nicotine from producing its usual rewarding effects if a person does smoke while taking the medication. This combination can more than double the chances of successfully quitting compared to unassisted attempts.

Comparing Chantix to Other Cessation Methods

How does Chantix stack up against other smoking cessation aids? While nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) like patches or gum work by providing controlled doses of nicotine, Chantix takes a different approach. Zyban (bupropion), another prescription option, affects brain chemistry differently but also aims to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Studies have shown Chantix to be more effective than both NRTs and Zyban in helping smokers quit. However, the most suitable method can vary between individuals based on factors like medical history, past quit attempts, and personal preferences.

Nausea: The Most Common Chantix Side Effect

While Chantix offers significant benefits for those trying to quit smoking, it’s not without potential side effects. Nausea stands out as the most frequently reported adverse reaction. But just how common is this side effect?

Research indicates that approximately 25% of Chantix users experience some degree of nausea. For most people, this side effect is:

• Mild to moderate in severity
• Most pronounced within the first two weeks of treatment
• Likely to diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication

Is nausea from Chantix a cause for immediate concern? In most cases, no. However, if nausea persists, worsens, or is accompanied by severe vomiting, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting the dosage or trying alternative strategies to manage this side effect.

Strategies to Manage Chantix-Induced Nausea

For those experiencing nausea while taking Chantix, several approaches may help alleviate symptoms:

1. Take Chantix with food
2. Stay well-hydrated
3. Eat smaller, more frequent meals
4. Avoid spicy, fatty, or overly rich foods
5. Consider taking the medication before bed (if approved by your doctor)

Remember, while nausea can be uncomfortable, it’s often temporary and manageable. The potential long-term health benefits of quitting smoking often outweigh this short-term discomfort for many users.

Appetite Changes and Weight Concerns: Separating Fact from Fiction

One of the most common concerns among smokers contemplating quitting is the potential for weight gain. How does Chantix factor into this equation? Does it exacerbate weight gain or potentially mitigate it?

Interestingly, Chantix’s effects on appetite and weight are not as straightforward as one might assume. Users may experience either an increase or decrease in appetite, but neither outcome occurs in more than 5% of individuals taking the medication.

Here are some key points to consider regarding Chantix and weight:

• Chantix itself does not appear to significantly influence weight gain or loss
• Weight changes after quitting smoking are primarily related to the cessation itself, not the medication
• On average, smokers gain 5-10 pounds after quitting, but individual experiences vary widely
• Approximately 20% of quitters may actually lose weight

Managing Weight During the Quit Process

While Chantix may not directly impact weight, quitting smoking often does. Here are some strategies to help manage weight while quitting:

1. Increase physical activity
2. Focus on nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods
3. Stay hydrated
4. Practice mindful eating
5. Consider working with a nutritionist or dietitian

Remember, the health benefits of quitting smoking far outweigh the potential for modest weight gain. Moreover, any weight gained can be addressed through healthy lifestyle changes once you’ve successfully quit.

Sleep Disturbances: Navigating Vivid Dreams and Insomnia

Among the more intriguing side effects reported by Chantix users are various sleep-related disturbances. These can range from vivid dreams to difficulty falling or staying asleep. But how common are these effects, and what can be done about them?

Studies have shown that:

• Approximately 10% of Chantix users experience abnormal dreams
• 1-3% report nightmares or sleep disorders
• A small number of case reports have described instances of sleepwalking, some involving potentially harmful activities

It’s important to note that sleep disturbances can also be a symptom of nicotine withdrawal. This makes it challenging to determine whether these effects are directly caused by Chantix or are part of the quitting process itself.

Strategies for Better Sleep While Taking Chantix

If you’re experiencing sleep issues while on Chantix, consider these approaches:

1. Establish a consistent sleep schedule
2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine
3. Avoid caffeine and electronic devices before bed
4. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
5. Discuss the timing of your Chantix dose with your healthcare provider

While vivid dreams can be unsettling, they’re generally not harmful. However, if sleep disturbances significantly impact your daily life or if you experience any concerning sleep behaviors, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider promptly.

Serious Side Effects: Understanding the Risks and Warning Signs

While most side effects of Chantix are mild to moderate, there is a potential for more serious adverse reactions. Understanding these risks is crucial for anyone considering or currently taking this medication. What are the most significant concerns, and how common are they?

Some of the more serious potential side effects of Chantix include:

• Neuropsychiatric symptoms (e.g., depression, suicidal thoughts)
• Cardiovascular events
• Seizures
• Serious skin reactions
• Allergic reactions

It’s important to emphasize that these serious side effects are rare. However, being aware of the warning signs can help ensure prompt medical attention if needed.

The Evolution of Chantix Safety Warnings

Chantix’s safety profile has been closely scrutinized since its introduction. In 2009, the FDA added a black box warning about potential neuropsychiatric risks. However, subsequent large-scale studies led to the removal of this warning in 2016. What prompted these changes?

A comprehensive study found that the risk of neuropsychiatric events with Chantix was not significantly higher than with other smoking cessation methods or even placebo. This research helped clarify the risk-benefit profile of Chantix, leading to updated recommendations.

Despite the removal of the black box warning, patients and healthcare providers should remain vigilant for any changes in mood, behavior, or thinking patterns while using Chantix.

Cardiovascular Considerations: Balancing Risks and Benefits

Chantix carries a warning about its use in patients with known cardiovascular disease. This caution stems from early data suggesting a small increased risk of cardiovascular events. But how significant is this risk, and how does it compare to the cardiovascular benefits of quitting smoking?

Key points to consider regarding Chantix and cardiovascular health:

• Initial studies suggested a slight increase in cardiovascular event risk
• Subsequent analyses of multiple clinical trials did not confirm this increased risk
• The FDA has noted that the benefits of quitting smoking with Chantix likely outweigh potential cardiovascular risks for most patients

It’s crucial to weigh these factors against the well-established cardiovascular benefits of smoking cessation. Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.

Monitoring Cardiovascular Health During Chantix Treatment

For patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease or risk factors, extra precautions may be warranted. Consider these steps:

1. Undergo a thorough cardiovascular assessment before starting Chantix
2. Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly
3. Report any new or worsening cardiovascular symptoms promptly
4. Discuss the balance of risks and benefits with your healthcare provider

Remember, the decision to use Chantix should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, taking into account individual health history and risk factors.

Duration of Side Effects: What to Expect Over Time

A common question among Chantix users is how long side effects typically last. Understanding the expected timeline can help patients better manage their treatment and set realistic expectations. So, what’s the typical duration for Chantix side effects?

General patterns of side effect duration:

• Most common side effects (e.g., nausea) often peak within the first few weeks
• Many side effects tend to diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication
• Some effects, like vivid dreams, may persist throughout treatment for some users
• Most side effects resolve completely after discontinuing the medication

It’s important to note that individual experiences can vary widely. Some people may have minimal side effects, while others might experience more persistent symptoms.

Strategies for Long-Term Side Effect Management

If you’re experiencing ongoing side effects while taking Chantix, consider these approaches:

1. Keep a symptom diary to track changes over time
2. Discuss persistent side effects with your healthcare provider
3. Consider dosage adjustments if approved by your doctor
4. Explore complementary strategies (e.g., dietary changes, stress reduction techniques)
5. Weigh the benefits of continued treatment against the impact of side effects

Remember, the goal is to find a balance that allows you to continue treatment while minimizing discomfort. Open communication with your healthcare provider is key to achieving this balance.

Minimizing Side Effects: Practical Tips for Chantix Users

While side effects are a possibility with any medication, there are often steps that can be taken to minimize their impact. For Chantix users, a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medication management strategies can help reduce the likelihood or severity of side effects. What are some practical tips for maximizing the benefits of Chantix while minimizing potential drawbacks?

Here are some strategies to consider:

• Start with a lower dose and gradually increase as tolerated
• Take Chantix with food to reduce nausea
• Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing
• Avoid alcohol, which can interact with Chantix and increase side effects

The Importance of Open Communication

One of the most crucial aspects of managing Chantix side effects is maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider. This includes:

1. Reporting any new or worsening symptoms promptly
2. Discussing any concerns or questions about the medication
3. Being honest about adherence to the prescribed regimen
4. Exploring alternative dosing schedules if needed
5. Considering combination therapies if Chantix alone isn’t providing optimal results

Remember, your healthcare provider is your partner in this journey. They can offer personalized advice and adjustments to your treatment plan based on your individual response and needs.

Balancing Risks and Benefits: Making Informed Decisions About Chantix

When considering Chantix as a smoking cessation aid, it’s crucial to weigh the potential risks against the significant benefits of quitting smoking. How can individuals and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about using Chantix?

Key factors to consider in the decision-making process:

• Individual health history and risk factors
• Previous quit attempts and methods tried
• Personal tolerance for potential side effects
• The substantial health benefits of smoking cessation
• The increased likelihood of quitting successfully with Chantix

It’s important to remember that while Chantix does carry risks of side effects, these must be balanced against the well-documented and severe health risks of continued smoking.

Personalizing the Approach to Smoking Cessation

Ultimately, the decision to use Chantix should be part of a comprehensive, personalized approach to quitting smoking. This may include:

1. Combining Chantix with behavioral support or counseling
2. Developing a quit plan with specific goals and strategies
3. Identifying and addressing individual triggers for smoking
4. Building a support network of friends, family, or support groups
5. Considering alternative or complementary cessation methods if needed

By taking a holistic approach and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can maximize their chances of quitting successfully while minimizing potential risks and side effects.

In conclusion, while Chantix can be an effective tool in the journey to quit smoking, it’s important to approach its use with a clear understanding of both its benefits and potential side effects. By staying informed, communicating openly with healthcare providers, and taking proactive steps to manage side effects, many individuals find that Chantix can be a valuable ally in their quest for a smoke-free life. The path to quitting smoking may have its challenges, but with the right support and strategies, it’s a goal well within reach for many smokers.

Chantix side effects and how to avoid them

Chantix side effects include nausea, appetite change, and vivid dreams. Learn more about these side effects and the Chantix recall.

Common Chantix side effects | Nausea | Appetite change | Vivid dreams | Serious side effects | Depression | Cardiovascular side effects | How long do side effects last? | Warnings | Interactions | How to avoid side effects

Smoking cessation has an array of benefits, including reductions in cancer rates, lung disease, heart attack and stroke risk, and all-cause mortality. Succeeding with a quit attempt can be exceedingly difficult, but the unique smoking cessation medication Chantix (varenicline) can more than double the chance of success. Zyban (bupropion) and over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapies, such as Nicoderm CQ nicotine patches, are a couple of the alternative options to help quit smoking. 

Chantix attaches to nicotine receptors in the brain as a partial agonist, both reducing the craving for nicotine and blocking the pleasure of smoking. While it is enticing to double the chance of achieving the array of smoke-free health benefits, there are some side effects with Chantix which must be considered. This article will explore Chantix side effects and provide tips for avoiding them.

Common side effects of Chantix

• Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, appetite change, or abdominal pain
• Flatulence, diarrhea, or constipation
• Dry mouth or taste disturbance
• Insomnia, abnormal dreams, or sleep disorder
• Malaise, fatigue, or somnolence (sleepiness)
• Headache
• Emotional disturbance
• Shortness of breath or respiratory disorders
• Skin rash

Nausea

The most common adverse reaction to Chantix is nausea, which studies have estimated to occur in about 25% of individuals. Typically, the nausea is mild, occurs within the first two weeks, and often resolves with time. Persistent or worsening nausea or if nausea is accompanied by vomiting, consult your prescriber for medical advice.

Appetite change

One of the biggest concerns amongst smokers who are considering quitting is that they will gain weight. While weight gain after stopping smoking averages five to 10 pounds, individual experiences can vary considerably. In fact, about 20% of those who quit may lose weight. 

Based on the concern regarding weight gain, interest in whether Chantix mitigates or worsens this risk is natural. Chantix users may actually experience either an increase or decrease in appetite, but neither one occurs in more than 5% of users. Ultimately, Chantix does not seem to significantly affect the chance of weight gain with smoking cessation.

Vivid dreams and nightmares

A variety of sleep-related disturbances have been described with Chantix. These disturbances can range from unusual dreams to trouble sleeping. Most commonly, abnormal dreams are experienced by about 10% of those taking the drug, and nightmares or sleep disorders are reported by another 1% to 3%. Small numbers of case reports have described sleepwalking that involved harmful activities. 

Sleep problems may also be an aspect of nicotine withdrawal after quitting smoking. Withdrawal symptoms after smoking cessation may also include cravings to smoke, increased appetite, sadness, irritability, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating.

Serious side effects of Chantix

• Depression or neuropsychiatric disorder
• Suicidal behavior or thoughts
• Homicidal thoughts
• Hypersensitivity allergic reaction or angioedema (swelling of the face or body)
• Serious skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (includes blisters and peeling skin) or erythema multiforme
• Arrhythmia (heart rhythm problem), heart attack, stroke, or angina (chest discomfort)
• Seizure
• Photosensitivity (light sensitivity)
• Vision changes
• Anemia or thrombocytopenia (low platelet or clotting cell count)
• Kidney stones or kidney failure
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Pancreatitis (pancreas inflammation)
• Hypokalemia (low potassium level)

Depression

Case reports of depressed mood and even suicidal thoughts and aggressive behavior came to light after the release of Chantix. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) responded by adding a black box warning on Chantix in 2009 about this risk. A subsequent study examined these potential concerns in detail and did not find an elevated risk of these adverse effects compared to other smoking cessation medications or even a placebo. The FDA removed the black box warning from Chantix in 2016.

Cardiovascular side effects

Chantix has labeling that warns about use by those with known cardiovascular disease. The labeling arose due to some study data showing a small increased risk of life-threatening cardiovascular events with Chantix. An analysis of multiple clinical trials did not corroborate this concern, however, as rates of cardiovascular events were similar between those taking and not taking Chantix. Furthermore, the FDA has noted that the benefits and risks of taking Chantix must be considered since smoking cessation is particularly improvement for those with cardiovascular disease.

How long do Chantix side effects last?

The duration of Chantix side effects can vary. Most side effects resolve when the medication is discontinued. In fact, immediate discontinuation is advised if one experiences mood changes while on Chantix. On the contrary, mild nausea may improve with time alone, even if Chantix is continued.

Chantix contraindications and warnings

Chantix is not habit-forming.

Based on the concern for cardiovascular or neurological side effects, an overdose of Chantix warrants emergency medical attention and a call to the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Case reports are limited, but one report lists a fatality with overdose, although additional factors were present.

Anyone with a history of hypersensitivity (allergy) to varenicline should not take Chantix. Cautious consideration and discussion with a healthcare professional are needed before taking Chantix for anyone with a seizure history or risk, cardiovascular disease, psychiatric illness, alcohol use, or renal impairment (kidney disease) with a creatinine clearance of less than 30 mL/minute. Age is another consideration as Chantix is only used in those 17 years and older. Lack of clinical trials in pregnancy and breastfeeding means that caution is needed before using the drug in these circumstances.

A recall on all brand-name Chantix was announced by Pfizer in 2021.

Chantix interactions

Medications that raise the risk of seizure are the primary drug interaction of note for Chantix and may need to be avoided or modified when taking Chantix. Examples of these medications include amifampridine, bupropion, and tramadol.

Concurrent nicotine use may increase the risk of headaches, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

Chantix may increase the effects of alcohol by lowering alcohol tolerance. Therefore, alcohol use should be curtailed or avoided.

How to avoid Chantix side effects

1. Carefully follow the instructions on taking Chantix, as the dosing is typically initiated at a low dose of 0.5 mg once daily for three days and then twice daily for four days, before increasing to the full 1 mg dose twice daily thereafter. This titration may help to avoid side effects at initiation. If you’re unsure how to take Chantix, ask a pharmacist to review the medication guide with you. The manufacturer also provides drug information.
2. Set a quit date for stopping smoking, often on day eight of Chantix therapy. However, some healthcare professionals may advise gradual discontinuation or a flexible quit date.
3. Chantix is usually taken for at least 12 weeks of treatment, but the end of treatment may be individualized.
4. Take the medication with a full glass of water after a meal to potentially reduce the chance of nausea.
5. Carefully review your health history with the treating medical provider, especially taking time to discuss any history of cardiovascular or mental health problems.
6. Avoid concurrent alcohol use.
7. Immediately tell your healthcare provider or seek medical attention if any mood changes, suicidal ideation, chest pain, or harmful sleep disorders are experienced while taking Chantix.

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Nausea. Symptoms, treatment | Directory KLRTS

Moscow, st. Partizanskaya, 41

Kuntsevsky
medical and rehabilitation center.

What is nausea

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation in the upper third of the abdomen and throat. It is not always a sign of poisoning and sometimes signals more serious pathologies, so this symptom should not be ignored. Attacks of nausea and discomfort are a common occurrence in diseases of the gallbladder, liver, stomach and other organs of the gastrointestinal tract.

Types and causes of occurrence

Nausea does not occur without a cause. Among the main provoking factors, overeating, nervous strain, a side effect when taking certain medications, hormonal disorders, hyperthermia and diseases of the digestive system should be noted.
Based on practice, many visits to a specialist for persistent nausea are associated with a latent course of cholecystitis, gastrointestinal ulcers, gastritis, pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction and individual intolerance to certain foods, colitis, Crohn’s disease, hepatitis, liver failure, biliary dyskinesia, etc.

Symptoms

The majority of visits to the doctor of the Kuntsevo Medical and Rehabilitation Center are associated with attacks of nausea, combined with the following symptoms:

• vomiting. Mild nausea and vomiting or urge to vomit – fairly common together,
• abdominal pain,
• bad breath,
• chills, trembling and weakness,
• temperature increase,
• diarrhea and stool disorder,
• muscle weakness,
• dizzy,
• discoloration of the skin.

Nausea is especially dangerous against the background of lack of air, changes in the color and structure of feces, drowsiness, and fainting. In this case, the specialists of the Kuntsevo Medical and Rehabilitation Center are ready to provide medical assistance in a short time.

Which doctor treats nausea? The doctor accepts by appointment. Anyone can choose the day and time of admission on the site, or by calling.

To make an appointment with a doctor, choose any method:

• call the clinic +7 (495) 103-99-55,
• order a callback,
• leave an application for an appointment, through a convenient form on the website:

IMPORTANT! Nausea only seems to be a minor symptom, which quickly passes and does not lead to serious consequences. This important signal of the body that alarming changes are taking place at some level of regulation should not be underestimated.

In order to understand the problem, determine the causes of the symptom and correct the problem, contact our treatment and rehabilitation center to an experienced and qualified specialist! Our doctors guarantee an individual approach to each patient at reasonable prices. Make an appointment with our doctor and forget about anxiety about nausea!

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Methods of treatment

Based on such a list of tests as the study of intestinal microflora, blood and feces, the doctor determines the inflammatory process. This list is supplemented by other examinations depending on the clinical picture.
Taking into account the age of the patient, the results of tests, the patient’s condition, the diagnosis is determined, and treatment is prescribed. The main goal of paid treatment for nausea is to eradicate its cause. For this, etiological and pathogenetic therapy involves taking medications.
If the symptoms do not subside within a few days, then the doctor adjusts the tactics of therapy and prescribes the use of anticholinergics, antipsychotics, H1 blockers, etc. As additional recommendations, he recommends taking warm water with lemon, chewing mints to stop symptoms at an unnecessary moment.

Why we should treat nausea

It is impossible to make a diagnosis without a good diagnosis. The clinic near the Molodezhnaya metro station has all the conditions for examination, treatment of nausea and subsequent recovery of patients. Thanks to the complete set of our center, you do not need to spend a lot of time on analyzes – in our own laboratory, the results are prepared in an hour. Without leaving the walls of the Kuntsevsky Medical and Rehabilitation Center, the patient immediately consults with a gastroenterologist and receives a treatment regimen.

References:

1. Gastroenterology (reference book). Ed. V.T. Ivashkina, S.I. Rapoport – M . : Publishing house “Russian doctor”, 1998
2. Communicable diseases: national guidelines. Ed. N.D. Yushchuk, Yu.Ya. Vengerov. M. : GEOTAR-Media, 2009
3. Yushchuk N.D., Brodov L.E. Acute intestinal infections. Diagnosis and treatment. — M.: Medicine, 2001
4. Henderson JM. Pathophysiology of the digestive system. Translation from English – M. – St. Petersburg: Binom – Nevsky Dialect, 1997

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Nausea and vomiting

Nausea is a painful sensation in the stomach and throat, which may be accompanied by weakness, excessive salivation, sweating and often precedes vomiting.

Vomiting is a sudden involuntary emptying of the stomach.

Nausea and vomiting are symptoms of many diseases and conditions, from pregnancy to serious pathologies such as brain tumors, epilepsy and myocardial infarction.

In most cases, nausea and vomiting are not harmful to the body. However, prolonged vomiting, often in combination with diarrhea, can lead to severe dehydration and, as a result, disruption of the cardiovascular system, brain, kidneys and other organs. This is especially true for young children, who themselves cannot control the manifestations of dehydration. Pregnant women may experience so-called excessive vomiting of pregnant women, which disrupts the balance of electrolytes in the blood and threatens the life of the mother and fetus.

There are medicines available that can reduce nausea. However, in any case, it is necessary to find out its cause.

Synonyms English

Nausea, emesis, vomiting, vomitus, distaste, sickness, retching, bdelygmia.

Symptoms

The duration of nausea and vomiting, the timing of their onset, and the effect of eating on them depend on their underlying cause. For example, nausea and / or vomiting almost immediately after eating may indicate gastritis (inflammation of the gastric mucosa), within 1-8 hours after eating – poisoning.

Prolonged vomiting may show signs of dehydration:

• dry mouth;
• thirst;
• sunken eyes;
• infrequent urination, decreased amount of urine, dark urine;
• in children, the fontanel can sink – a soft area at the junction of the child’s cranial bones, which normally closes by 12-18 months of age.

There are also a number of symptoms that are signs of dangerous, life-threatening conditions and require immediate medical attention:

• admixture of blood in vomit;
• severe headache, confusion, impaired consciousness;
• abdominal pain;
• signs of dehydration;
• shortness of breath;
• Vomiting that lasts more than a day (for children, if it lasts for several hours, especially in combination with diarrhea and fever).

Vomiting and nausea usually resolve within 6-24 hours. If these symptoms recur within a week and if you suspect a possible pregnancy, you should also seek medical advice.

General information about the disease

Nausea occurs when there is a decrease or absence of gastric peristalsis with simultaneous tension of the initial part of the intestine – the duodenum, which is accompanied by the reflux of part of the contents of the duodenum into the stomach. With vomiting, there is a strong contraction of the diaphragm and muscles of the anterior abdominal wall, holding the breath and a sharp release of the contents of the stomach into the esophagus and further into the oral cavity. This may be accompanied by increased salivation, sweating, weakness, dizziness.

Specific centers in the brain are responsible for the occurrence of nausea and vomiting, which receive information from the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, vestibular apparatus, other parts of the brain, kidneys, and also react to the chemical composition of the blood, including toxins, drugs, metabolic products. These centers trigger and control the activity of the muscles involved in nausea and vomiting.

Causes of nausea and vomiting may be as follows.

• Irritation of the gastric mucosa. In this case, nausea and vomiting are protective reactions of the body aimed at eliminating the damaging agent.
• Intestinal infections – rotavirus, salmonellosis, botulism, dysentery, etc. – in addition to nausea and vomiting, are accompanied by pain in the abdomen, fever. The most common infection is rotavirus. It is especially common among children attending kindergartens and nurseries, and occurs with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, which usually lasts 1-2 days. After the disease, immunity is formed.
• Food poisoning. In this case, vomiting occurs within a few hours after eating.
• Gastric ulcer – damage to the mucous membrane of the stomach under the action of gastric juice. May be accompanied by belching, heartburn, abdominal pain.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a chronic disease in which there is a regular reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus with damage to the mucous membrane of the esophagus by acidic gastric juice.
• Irritation of the stomach by other substances: alcohol, nicotine, aspirin.
• Effects on the central nervous system and vestibular apparatus. In this case, nausea and vomiting are caused by irritation of certain centers of the brain.
• An increase in intracranial pressure in brain injuries, tumors, infections (meningitis, encephalitis) may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
• Stimulation of the vestibular apparatus. It includes labyrinthitis (inflammation of the inner ear), motion sickness in transport, and other diseases and conditions in which excessive irritation of the balance organ occurs.
• Headache, especially in migraine. Migraine is a neurological disease characterized by severe headache, usually on one side, which may be exacerbated by bright lights or loud noises and accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
• Sunstroke. A condition that occurs when the head is exposed to the sun for a long time. Often found in children. May be accompanied by lethargy, weakness, nausea, vomiting, pallor, disorientation, loss of consciousness.
• Diseases of other organs – diabetes mellitus, urolithiasis, hepatitis, pancreatitis, certain malignant neoplasms, mental illness (depression, anorexia, bulimia) and other diseases.
• Medicinal products used in the treatment of cancer, radiotherapy.
• Pregnancy (first trimester).
• In children under one year old, vomiting may be a sign of pyloric stenosis, intestinal intussusception, and often accompanies viral diseases (influenza, SARS). Pyloric stenosis is a narrowing or complete obstruction of the opening between the stomach and the duodenum. Intestinal intussusception is a condition in which a segment of the intestine is embedded in the lumen of an adjacent section of the intestine, which leads to the development of intestinal obstruction.

In adults, the most common causes of vomiting and nausea are intestinal infections, food poisoning, motion sickness; in children, intestinal infections, food poisoning, overeating, as well as a severe cough and any illness with a high fever.

Who is at risk?

• Preschoolers.
• Pregnant.
• Undergoing anticancer therapy.
• People with chronic diseases of the digestive system.
• People with mental illness.

Diagnosis

When determining the cause of nausea and vomiting, their duration, the time of their occurrence, the presence of signs of other diseases and conditions are important. Laboratory and instrumental studies are also important.

Laboratory diagnostics

• Complete blood count. An increase in white blood cells may indicate an infection as a possible cause of nausea and vomiting. An increase in the number of red blood cells indicates thickening of the blood due to dehydration.
• ESR. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Normally, red blood cells repel each other. With inflammation, the protein composition of the blood changes, electrolytes stick together more easily, and the rate of their sedimentation increases. Thus, an increase in ESR may indicate infection or chronic inflammation as a possible cause of nausea and vomiting.
• Blood electrolytes
• Potassium and sodium in blood serum. They participate in the transmission of a nerve impulse, muscle contraction, maintaining the acid-base balance of the blood. A decrease in serum potassium and sodium levels may indicate blood clotting and dehydration. Sodium levels can increase with kidney disease, adrenal dysfunction.
• Serum calcium. Calcium is involved in the formation of bone tissue, the conduction of a nerve impulse, and the work of some enzymes. A change in its level is a sign of diseases of the kidneys, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, and some neoplasms.
• Serum glucose. Glucose is the main source of energy in the body. An increase in its concentration is characteristic of diabetes mellitus. A significant increase in its level may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, a severe, life-threatening condition that develops with a lack of insulin. Without insulin, the body’s cells cannot use glucose for energy. As a result, the body begins to use fats, the breakdown of which produces toxic substances – ketones. Thus, the level of glucose and ketones in the blood rises. Diabetic ketoacidosis can lead to coma or even death if left untreated.
• Total amylase in serum. This is an enzyme that is produced in the pancreas and salivary glands. Essential for the digestion of carbohydrates. An increase in the level of amylase may indicate a pathological process in the pancreas.
• Lipase. An enzyme produced in the pancreas that is involved in the digestion of fats. An elevated lipase concentration is the most specific sign of pancreatic damage.
• β-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) is a hormone that is produced by the membrane of the embryo and is involved in maintaining pregnancy. A blood test for beta-hCG is used to diagnose pregnancy. Home pregnancy tests are also based on determining its amount in the urine, however, determining its level in the blood is more reliable and can detect pregnancy already on the 6-8th day after fertilization.
• Urinalysis with microscopy. Dark, concentrated urine can be a sign of dehydration.
• Sowing feces for flora. Used for suspected intestinal infection.

Other examinations

• Ultrasound examination (ultrasound), X-ray of the abdominal organs. They are used to assess the state of internal organs and identify the cause of nausea and vomiting.
• X-ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the skull. It is used to diagnose injuries, diseases of the brain.
• Endoscopic examination of the gastrointestinal tract. This is an examination of the digestive organs with the help of an endoscope – a special device in the form of a tube equipped with an optical system. During endoscopy, you can take a sample of tissue from the wall of the digestive tract for subsequent microscopic examination.
• Lumbar puncture for suspected diseases of the central nervous system. This is taking a sample of the fluid around the spinal cord. It is carried out after anesthesia. For research, a needle is used, which is inserted between the second and third or third and fourth lumbar vertebrae. The patient at this time sits or lies on his side, the back is maximally bent.
• Audiometry and electronystagmography. It is used to diagnose diseases of the vestibular apparatus. Audiometry is a test performed by an audiologist to determine hearing acuity. To do this, use a special device audiometer. Electronystagmography is a method of recording involuntary movements of the eyeballs during head movements, temperature changes, which provides information about the state of the vestibular apparatus.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) is a study of the electrical activity of the brain using sensors that are placed on the head. It is carried out with suspicion of a neurological or mental pathology. This way evaluate the state of the brain, its response to stimuli.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the nausea and vomiting.