The evaluation of nausea and vomiting begins with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with nausea and vomiting may include:

• Excessive sweating
• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• Vomiting green bile
• High fever
• Signs of dehydration

Signs of dehydration include:

• Dry mouth
• Dry skin
• Fainting
• Sunken eyes
• Sunken fontanelle in infants
• Rapid pulse
• Decreased urination:
• Urinating less than 3 times per day
• Unintentional weight loss

In many cases, the underlying cause for nausea and vomiting can be determined without testing. Testing is required if significant dehydration is suspected or a more serious underlying cause for the vomiting needs to be excluded.

Tests that may be used to evaluate nausea and vomiting include:

• Complete blood count
• Kidney profile
• Measures glucose, electrolytes and kidney function
• Urinalysis

Imaging tests that may be used to evaluate nausea and vomiting include:

• Abdominal x-rays:
• Abdominal ultrasound
• CT scanning of the abdomen