(f)
Ingestion of poisons.
(g)
Dietary indiscretion; excess of tea or coffee, excess of heavily
spiced food.
(3) Signs/symptoms. Anorexia, loss of appetite, is always present. Other
signs and symptoms include:
(a) Epigastric fullness (full stomach) and pressure in that area.
(b) Nausea and vomiting.
(c)
Headache and dizziness.
(d)
Malaise, a general feeling of discomfort or sickness.
(e) Examination indicates mild stomach tenderness.
(f)
Hemorrhage present if cause is chemical irritants.
(g) Diarrhea, colic, malaise, fever, chills, headache, and muscle
cramps if toxins or infections are the cause.
(4) Treatment. Treatment depends on the cause of the illness and the
symptoms of the patient. Generally, remove the offending agent, if that is appropriate,
and treat the specific infections.
(a) If the patient has become dehydrated, correct the water and
electrolyte disturbances. Do not give the patient anything by mouth until he has
stopped vomiting. Then, begin by giving him clear liquid and, later, progress to a diet of
soft foods as the patient can tolerate them. Intravenous fluids may be necessary to
correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if vomiting and/or diarrhea have been
severe. Drugs to control nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may be prescribed. Tigan
(trimethobenzamide) is a medicine that can be given to combat nausea and vomiting.
The dosage depends on the severity of the problem and the response of the patient to
(b)
If the patient is in severe pain, give an analgesic.
CAUTION:
Do NOT use aspirin because aspirin can be very irritating to the stomach
lining.
MD0581
3-8