Feeling Nauseated And No Bowel Movement. Taking Protonix. Could This Be Due To Constipated Or Ulcer?

Posted on Sat, 16 Nov 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 16 Nov 2013 Answered on

Mon, 9 Dec 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Been extremely nauseated, more in the evening hours then during the day, but having the feeling sometimes all day long. I haven't had a bowel movement in about 3 days. very nervous and scared. Take birth control religiously everyday in the 9 to 10pm time frame... Am I pregnant? What could this be? My family doctor recently put me on Protonix, thinking I have acid reflux, could I possibly be constipated? can it be an ulcer? I need to figure this out, I don't have insurance to go for testing, etc... please help.

Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Possible side effect. Detailed Answer: thank you for sending the question. The nausea could be related to irritation of your esophagus or stomach. it takes some time for this tissue to heal - weeks in fact. the protonix should help with that. As for the constipation. This could be related to the Protonix as a possible side effect. Pregnancy is always a possibility so a quick pregnant test would be reasonable. If the nausea continues despite the medication your doctor may consider referring you to a specialist - a gastroenterologist for further recommendations. For now - good well balanced diet. adequate water intake daily - 6-8 glasses daily. Regular exercise is also important. Keep us posted on your progress or let us know if you have any additional concerns. Sincerley, Dr Galamaga

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Robert Galamaga (28 minutes later)

Is there anything you suggest in taking to help with the nausea? Just could use the relief..

Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (24 hours later)

Brief Answer: OTC remedy Detailed Answer: hello and thanks for the followup. You could try some over-the-counter preparations in liquid form such as Maalox or Pepto-Bismol. These products have a soothing effect on irritated mucosal tissue and in your case it might provide some level of relief of the nausea. I would suggest that you take some of this on an empty stomach and see how you feel. Thanks again for sending your question. I sincerely hope you feel better soon and I am confident that your body will slowly heal itself with the assistance of medication and your doctors expertise. Sincerely, Dr. Galamaga

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar