From the Guidelines
Nausea and vomiting can be caused by various infections, including viral gastroenteritis, food poisoning from bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, norovirus, rotavirus, and hepatitis A, as well as systemic infections such as influenza, COVID-19, urinary tract infections, meningitis, and appendicitis, and parasitic infections like giardiasis and bacterial infections such as Helicobacter pylori. These symptoms occur because infection triggers inflammatory responses in the body, stimulating the vomiting center in the brain 1. The body often uses vomiting as a defense mechanism to expel pathogens or toxins.
Common Causes of Nausea and Vomiting
- Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
- Food poisoning from bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli
- Norovirus
- Rotavirus
- Hepatitis A
- Systemic infections such as influenza, COVID-19, urinary tract infections, meningitis, and appendicitis
- Parasitic infections like giardiasis
- Bacterial infections such as Helicobacter pylori (which causes stomach ulcers)
Treatment and Management
Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying infection with appropriate antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals for certain viral infections, or antiparasitic medications for parasitic causes 1. Supportive care with fluid replacement is crucial to prevent dehydration, especially in severe cases with persistent vomiting. Most viral causes are self-limiting and resolve within a few days with rest and hydration.
Important Considerations
It is essential to note that some infections, such as those caused by certain strains of E. coli, may require specific treatment approaches to avoid harm 1. Additionally, the choice of antimicrobial agent may change due to evolving resistance patterns 1. Therefore, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest guidelines and recommendations for the management of infectious diseases.
From the Research
Types of Infections that Cause Nausea and Vomiting
- Viral gastroenteritis, which can be caused by rotaviruses, enteric adenoviruses, human caliciviruses, and astroviruses, is a common infection that leads to nausea and vomiting 2
- Bacterial infections, such as food poisoning, can also trigger nausea and vomiting 3
- Other types of infections, including those caused by toxins, bacteria, viruses, and fungi, can enter the body through various routes and cause nausea and vomiting 4
Mechanisms of Nausea and Vomiting
- Nausea and vomiting are considered defense mechanisms that help remove harmful substances from the body 4
- The act of vomiting is coordinated by neuronal circuitry in the brain stem, while the sensation of nausea is thought to involve the cerebral cortex 5
- Various emetic triggers, including infections, can activate the emetic reflex and lead to nausea and vomiting 3
Treatment and Management
- Removing the triggering agent and providing supportive therapy can help manage acute episodes of nausea and vomiting 3
- Antiemetics, such as ondansetron and metoclopramide, can be effective in reducing vomiting due to gastroenteritis in children 6
- Oral rehydration solutions can help treat infantile diarrhea caused by viral gastroenteritis 2