Aa
prolonged vomitting after back injury
My boyfriend suffered a back injury 3 years ago to T12. Ever since then he has vomitting episodes that last for two weeks. These episodes occur every 1-3 months. He has been unable to keep a job due to this illness and is confined to the bed for two weeks at a time. He has been tested for just about everything, but no one has any answers. One doctor indicated that the nerves that trigger the digestive system are in the location of the injury, possibly causing the vomitting but he did not have any suggestions for treatment. Has anyone ever heard of this before? Any suggestions? Please help!!
A related discussion, Very Concerned was started.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
I would image the area first with plain films and possible an MRI.
A neurology referral can be considered at this time, as various neurologic disorders can lead to protracted vomiting.
GI causes of the nausea can be considered if the neurologic workup is negative. An upper GI series, upper endoscopy, or gastric emptying scan can be considered to evaluate for possible GI causes of the vomiting.
Appropriate GI or neurology referrals should be obtained - preferably at a major academic medical center
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.
www.kevinmd.com
A neurology referral can be considered at this time, as various neurologic disorders can lead to protracted vomiting.
GI causes of the nausea can be considered if the neurologic workup is negative. An upper GI series, upper endoscopy, or gastric emptying scan can be considered to evaluate for possible GI causes of the vomiting.
Appropriate GI or neurology referrals should be obtained - preferably at a major academic medical center
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.
www.kevinmd.com
yes, the nerves that trigger the digestive system are around T-12 (the lower edge of the rib cage). There is a possibility that there is a nerve being pinched. If the nerve was damaged by his injury it can be diagnosed by an electrical study performed by an orthopedic neurologist. If the problem is an intermittant nerve pinch, he may wish to consult a good chiropractor. He should take his spinal xrays and report with him when he goes. The chiropractor may be able to manipulate the spine to relieve pressure at this site and prevent vomiting. good luck
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