Dizzyness, and Nasea after eating

[mhdstein]

Hello Dr.

I got off a 3-day Carnival Cruise about two weeks ago and have been getting dizzy and naseous about 20-30 minutes after I eat.  On the cruise I drank alot (4 drinks a day) but never to the point of vomiting, out-of-control behavoir or blackouts.  Since the cruise ended this is how my day goes.

I feel best in the morning.  As the day goes on I experience waves of dizzyness, and nasea especially after eating. By the time night arrives, I'm disappointed because I feel dizzy and unmotivated.  The sensation goes away when I sit down or lay down.  I'm mostly disturbed when I stand up and move around.

Do you have any ideas on what is going on?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There can be several options, ranging from ulcers to gastritis to gastroenteritis.  

I would consider an upper GI series or upper endoscopy as a reasonable initial test to evaluate for any masses, strictures, ulcers, or obstruction.  Stools can be sent out for various GI diseases - including culture, Giardia and ova/parasites.

If everything returns negative, you can opt for more specialized testing.  One condition that comes to mind is carcinoid syndrome - which can lead to flushing and dizziness after eating.  A urine test for the metabolite 5-HIAA would be the initial test for this uncommon condition.

Another would be gastroparesis - or delayed gastric emptying.  A gastric emptying scan would be required to diagnose this.  

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[yoshi]

you better go to your doc and get a breath test on Hector Pylori bacteria.
Their buffets usually have some stale stuff mixed with fresh stuff.
and did you drink from local joints when you are on excursion?/

[astros18]

Could be vertigo. It will cause terrible nausea.

[Skye_Miezta]

When I wake up of a morning, I'm always tired, I usually have to force my breakfast down. Before and after meals, I get nauseas and sometimes have to sit or lay to make the feeling stop. I try to go to sleep early, but I have a lot of trouble sleeping. I often feel weak and sometimes I can barely stand.

Will you please tell me what is going on?