Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 7/24/2008

Question
QUESTION: I had a Colonoscopy/Endoscopy on 7/14, and as of 7/23 still have vomiting and severe nausea. The doctor kept me hospitalized from 7/14-19 to get the vomiting/nausea under control with 4 IV drugs. Now at home I am on Compezene orally, but still have the symptoms. Any idea of cause? My doctor is at a loss. Thanks.

ANSWER: I have no idea of the cause but I can tell you that it is not the anesthesia. At most patients, c/o nausea and vomitting for 24-48 hours. Beyond that, it must be another cause. You might want to be seen by a Neurologist to make sure there is nothing organic causing the problem.

Ronald Levy, MD
Associate Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you Dr. Levy. My MD said that the cause is probably a toxic reaction to something in the anesthesia which for whatever reason my body cannot break down and excrete. It will just take time. Does that sound possible? Thanks for the Neurologist suggestion. If I don't improve, I will try that.

Answer
Not really. 10 days out, any metabolite should already be excreted. Sometimes we don't know what triggers the nausea center (or just sensitizes it). Just make sure to stay well hydrated and well-nourished until this all goes away.

Ronald Levy, MD
Associate Professor of Anethesiology
UTMB-Galveston