Alcohol vomiting
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Alcohol-Induced Vomiting: Causes, Correlates, and Management
Self-Induced Vomiting After Alcohol Consumption
Self-induced vomiting after alcohol consumption is a behavior observed in a significant portion of individuals, particularly among those with underlying eating disorders or depressive symptoms. A study involving 107 female university students found that 59.8% of those who consumed alcohol reported engaging in self-induced vomiting, with 57% doing so as frequently as four times in the last month. This behavior was strongly associated with bulimia nervosa symptomatology and depression, suggesting that intentional vomiting after drinking may be a variant of substance use or eating disorders. Another study in a clinical setting found that 29% of patients with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) reported self-induced vomiting, primarily to prevent hangovers. However, this behavior was not linked to eating disorders or impulsivity in this sample.
Alcohol-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Clinical Observations
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms among chronic alcoholics and those experiencing alcohol intoxication or withdrawal. A study examining medical records of 1,911 alcoholics found a significant correlation between nausea/vomiting and hallucinations during alcohol intoxication/withdrawal, suggesting a potential link between these symptoms and neuroreceptor activity in the central nervous system. Additionally, chronic alcoholics often experience upper gastrointestinal complaints, but these symptoms are not necessarily related to gastric motor dysfunction, as gastric emptying rates in alcoholics were found to be similar to those in normal controls.
Management of Nausea and Vomiting with Isopropyl Alcohol
Inhalation of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) has been explored as a non-pharmacologic intervention for managing nausea and vomiting in various settings. A systematic review of 13 randomized controlled trials found mixed results, with seven studies reporting IPA to be more effective than placebo, four studies finding no difference, and two studies deeming IPA ineffective. Despite the low overall quality of evidence, participant satisfaction was generally high, and no adverse effects were reported. In a specific clinical trial, IPA inhalation significantly reduced nausea in patients with mild head trauma after 30 minutes, although it did not have a favorable effect on vomiting. Another case report highlighted the successful use of IPA for managing nausea and vomiting in a palliative care patient, emphasizing its safety and effectiveness as a non-pharmacologic option.
Alcohol Consumption and Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting
Alcohol consumption habits can influence the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). A study on patients undergoing liver resection found that those with a history of alcohol consumption had a lower risk of PONV compared to non-drinkers. This protective effect is thought to be related to the induction of cytochrome P450 enzymes by alcohol, which may alter the metabolism of anesthetic agents.
Conclusion
Vomiting after alcohol consumption can be self-induced or a result of alcohol's physiological effects. Self-induced vomiting is often linked to eating disorders and depression, while alcohol-induced nausea and vomiting may be associated with neuroreceptor activity. Inhalation of isopropyl alcohol shows promise as a non-pharmacologic treatment for nausea, though its effectiveness for vomiting is less clear. Understanding these behaviors and their management is crucial for addressing the health impacts of alcohol consumption.
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