Nausea

What is nausea?

Nausea is characterized by stomach discomfort and the feeling of needing to vomit. It often precedes vomiting, where the contents of the stomach are expelled. This condition has numerous causes and can frequently be avoided with preventive measures.

What causes nausea?

Nausea can arise from a variety of sources. Some individuals have a heightened sensitivity to motion or specific foods, medications, or medical conditions, all of which can trigger nausea. Let’s delve into some of the most common causes of this discomfort.

• Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach contents moving back up the esophagus can cause a burning sensation leading to nausea.
• Infection or virus: Bacteria or viruses affecting the stomach can lead to nausea, with foodborne bacteria causing food poisoning and viral infections causing similar symptoms.
• Medications: Certain medications, including chemotherapy, may upset the stomach and contribute to nausea. Always review medication information carefully.
• Motion sickness and seasickness: Motion that doesn’t sync with brain signals can lead to nausea, dizziness, or vomiting during travel.
• Diet: Overeating, consuming spicy or high-fat foods, or eating allergens can upset the stomach and cause nausea.
• Pain: Intense pain from conditions like pancreatitis, gallbladder stones, or kidney stones can contribute to nausea symptoms.
• Ulcer: Sores in the stomach or small intestine lining (ulcers) can cause a burning sensation and sudden nausea, particularly after eating.
• Pregnancy: Nausea is common in early pregnancy and may persist throughout pregnancy.

Nausea can also indicate several other medical conditions, such as:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
• Ear infection
• Heart attack
• Intestinal blockage
• Liver failure or liver cancer
• Meningitis
• Migraine

When to seek medical help

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience nausea along with symptoms of a heart attack, such as crushing chest pain, intense headache, jaw pain, sweating, or pain in your left arm. Additionally, seek emergency help if you have nausea accompanied by a severe headache, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, or confusion. It’s crucial to seek medical assistance if you suspect ingestion of a poisonous substance or if you’re dehydrated from vomiting and diarrhea.

How is nausea treated?

Treatment for nausea depends on its underlying cause. For instance, motion sickness can be alleviated by sitting in the front seat of a car or using medications like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or a scopolamine patch for seasickness. Addressing the root cause with medications such as stomach-acid reducers for GERD or pain relievers for severe headaches can also help manage nausea.

To prevent dehydration after nausea subsides, it’s important to stay hydrated by consuming small, frequent sips of clear liquids or electrolyte-containing beverages. When reintroducing food, starting with the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) can help settle the stomach.

How is nausea prevented?

Avoiding triggers like flickering lights (which can trigger migraines), heat and humidity, sea voyages, and strong odors (such as perfume or cooking smells) can also help prevent nausea. Taking an anti-nausea medication like scopolamine before travel can be effective in preventing motion sickness.