Cold & Throwing up

[WeekendDiver]

For some reason, whenever I get a bit chilly (not even shivering, just a tiny bit chilly), and when I tilt my head back (which is the position I want to be in when I'm in trim) I have a very strong urge to throw up. When I tilt my head towards my chest the feeling goes away. This does not happen when I'm warm. It happens in open water, the pool, anywhere.
Any clues what might be going on??
WeekendDiver

 

[The Kraken]

Weekend . . .

A most interesting and perplexing question!

But I think it fall more into the realm of diving medicine, so I'm moving it to that forum.

You'll get much more sound information there.

the K

 

[fisherdvm]

Hypothermia shifts blood flow from non essential organs to the core or brain. Presumptively this lack of blood supply to your intestine might decrease peristalsis, and cause a back up of gastric secretion. Add to it the air that you swallowed in diving - giving you nausea. My guess on your neck position is that, by hyperextension of your neck, you elongate the esophagus - making the lower esophageal sphincter less patent? Perhaps this also trigger the gag reflex more?

Why don't you try sticking your finger in the back of your throat with your neck down, and with it extended, and let us know which position will make you gag worse?