Abdominal cancer, nausea, and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting in abdominal cancer is perhaps one of the most difficult symptom complexes to manage, especially when complicated by bowel obstruction. There are many mechanisms of nausea in advanced abdominal cancer with a number of therapeutic interventions that can significantly enhance symptom control and overall quality of life. As with pain, the ideal approach should include a mechanistic analysis of the causes of nausea beginning with a thorough history, followed by a directed physical examination, and selected laboratory studies. The symptom history, in conjunction with a physical examination and directed tests should direct appropriate pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions. The result is often the amelioration of significant suffering and enhanced quality of living.