What Causes Vomiting, Sweating, Chills And Diarrhea?

Posted on Thu, 5 May 2016

Question: Hi. My wife has been experiencing vomiting followed by sweats followed by chills followed by diarrhea over the past four hours or so. The cycle is repeating itself. Seems like food poisoning or a stomach virus but we had the same dinner last night and she hasn't eaten out or introduced anything new to her diet in past 24 hours. She did visit a kiddie play center with our one-year-old yesterday and perhaps she picked up something there. Biggest question is how long do we let her ride it out or when do we take her to an adult care clinic or the hospital? Thanks much. My emails address is YYYY@YYYY
Sincerely, XXXX

Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (33 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Considerations

Detailed Answer:
hello and thank you for sending the question.

This sounds like a viral gastroenteritis. This type of illness is usually self-limited and will run its course within 24 to 48 hours. The main concern is that she does maintain some degree of hydration and nutrition during this period of time.

If she's able to tolerate gentle hydration and some calorie intakethen I would suggest continued close observation over the next 12 to 24 hours.

However, if she's not able to tolerate any hydration and if she exhibits signs of worsening fatigue, weakness or lethargy then I would consider bringing her to the local emergency department for evaluation.again the concern would be that she is at risk for dehydration.

I would continue close observation for tonight. If symptoms worsen significantly then I would bring her in for evaluation as described above.

Thank you again for sending the question.

Sincerely,

Dr. Galamaga

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Robert Galamaga (1 hour later)

Thank you, that makes sense. I gave her some Dramamine to combat the nausea and an ibuprofen for fever/headache. How contagious is this, btw? (i.e., How long before she can handle our one-year-old?)

Chuck

Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (12 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Followup

Detailed Answer:
Contagious possibly for up to 24 hours. after that much less so.

Dr Galamaga.

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad