A 21-year-old woman found herself in a distressing situation, clutching her phone and a red Solo cup filled with vomit, as she tearfully confided in her father about her ongoing ordeal. The acrid odor emanating from the cup hinted at the persistent vomiting that had plagued her for days, leaving her feeling weak and dehydrated.
Despite her attempts to alleviate her symptoms, every morsel of food or sip of liquid she consumed triggered violent heaves, straining her chest and abdomen muscles. The young woman had visited the emergency room numerous times over the past few months, receiving only temporary relief from IV fluids and anti-nausea medication.
Encouraged by her father, she reluctantly made her way to Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, where she was once again administered IV fluids and anti-emetic medication before being discharged. Frustrated by the lack of answers, she heeded her father’s advice to return home to Cleveland.
From Sideswiped to Whipsawed
Shortly after starting her junior year at Emory University, a car accident rattled her world. The impact of another vehicle making an illegal turn caused her car to be sideswiped, jolting her against the door. Initially feeling unscathed, she went about her day as usual.
However, the following day marked the onset of relentless vomiting. Every meal or drink triggered waves of nausea and violent retching. Concerned, she sought medical attention at the emergency room, where a doctor suspected a concussion due to the timing of her symptoms post-accident.
Despite assurances that her condition would improve within days, the vomiting persisted unabated. Fearing the worst, she flew back to Cleveland, where she was promptly admitted to Cleveland Clinic Children’s hospital.
Under the care of a pediatric gastroenterologist, investigations into potential causes of her persistent vomiting were initiated. While anxiety medication and psychogenic factors were considered, tests ruled out pregnancy, marijuana use, and thyroid abnormalities.
