woman with strange vomiting/coughing condition

[K635]

I work at a restaurant and there is a woman who comes in often with a strange condition. She will ask for a stack of disposable paper napkins and periodically cough/vomit small amounts into them while sitting at the table and eating. Apparently, it doesn't happen often but when it does, there is nothing that can be done to control it. The woman seems to be in her 60s or 70s. What is this condition? I have never heard of anything like it before.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Nausea and vomiting are not diseases, but rather are symptoms of many different conditions. People who are undergoing cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy, have an increased risk of nausea and vomiting.

She may be having some GI pathology like hiatus hernia, GERD or any sort of GI malignancy. It can be a sign of a more serious illness. Some examples of serious conditions that may bring on nausea or vomiting include concussions, encephalitis, meningitis, intestinal blockage, appendicitis, migraine headaches, and brain tumors. Liver disease and kidney disorders may also lead to vomiting after eating.

The exact cause can only be identified after a complete physical examination and lab investigations.

Take care and God bless.

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

How are you?
It is very likely that the woman has a nervous stomach. It can happen in old age or due to excessive stress and anxiety. Hope it helps!