Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Causes Intermittent Heaving Episodes And Lack Of Appetite?

Hi, I am a 65 year old man, that has been going through gagging episodes that happen at anytime. This has been happening for months. I have had an MRI, cat scan, and scope and the dr s are unable to determine what it is. I am afraid to eat, because I am afraid to throw up. 90% of the time I do not throw up, I just gag for 5-10 minutes. I know when they are going to happen, but unable to stop them. If I feel it coming on, I try to lay down, hoping that it goes away. Why am I having these episodes??
Tue, 24 Nov 2020
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

Gagging or swallowing problems in the elderly are triggered when the person tries to take more food at a time, tries to eat fast or swallows fast. Medical conditions that cause such symptoms may be stricture in the esophagus, acid reflux, Parkinson's disease and frailty syndrome, etc. You are suggested to drink luke warm water, avoid cold food, take short walks to avoid build up of gas or acid reflux. Avoid spicy, oily food. Full fat dairy products, cheesy meals, etc. Take small amount of food that is easily digestible. Take food multiple times a day.

Stay well hydrated, take food rich in vitamin E for better lubrication. Take Evion-400mg, once daily for 20 days to feel better. Take antacids or PPIs, one SOS when required. To help appetite get better take Liver tonics or Liv - 52. You can also take digestives or enzymes (Aristozyme caps) to feel better. You are suggested to get clinically examined by a GP, get liver function tests & routine blood & urine tests. If required, imaging tests done to detect the pathology causing you discomfort.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
What Causes Intermittent Heaving Episodes And Lack Of Appetite?

Hello, Gagging or swallowing problems in the elderly are triggered when the person tries to take more food at a time, tries to eat fast or swallows fast. Medical conditions that cause such symptoms may be stricture in the esophagus, acid reflux, Parkinson s disease and frailty syndrome, etc. You are suggested to drink luke warm water, avoid cold food, take short walks to avoid build up of gas or acid reflux. Avoid spicy, oily food. Full fat dairy products, cheesy meals, etc. Take small amount of food that is easily digestible. Take food multiple times a day. Stay well hydrated, take food rich in vitamin E for better lubrication. Take Evion-400mg, once daily for 20 days to feel better. Take antacids or PPIs, one SOS when required. To help appetite get better take Liver tonics or Liv - 52. You can also take digestives or enzymes (Aristozyme caps) to feel better. You are suggested to get clinically examined by a GP, get liver function tests & routine blood & urine tests. If required, imaging tests done to detect the pathology causing you discomfort. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician