Nausea/Vomiting
Nausea is a feeling of unease and discomfort in the stomach that often precedes vomiting. Vomiting, or emesis, is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. Both nausea and vomiting are symptoms of various conditions, ranging from minor issues like indigestion to serious illnesses. While occasional nausea and vomiting are usually not a cause for concern, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying health problem. If you experience frequent nausea or vomiting, contact Digestive System Healthcare to consult with our specialists for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What are the causes of nausea and vomiting?
Nausea and vomiting can be triggered by numerous factors, including:
- Gastrointestinal disorders:
- Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
- Food poisoning
- Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Peptic ulcers
- Gallbladder disease
- Appendicitis
- Infections:
- Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections
- Medications and treatments:
- Certain antibiotics, pain relievers, and chemotherapy drugs
- Motion sickness:
- Travel by car, boat, plane, or train
- Dietary factors:
- Overeating or eating too quickly
- Consumption of contaminated food or drinks
- Intolerance or allergies to certain foods
- Other medical conditions:
- Pregnancy (morning sickness)
- Migraine headaches
- Inner ear disorders
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Pancreatitis
- Liver or kidney disease
- Psychological factors:
- Anxiety, stress, or fear
How can you relieve nausea and vomiting?
Managing nausea and vomiting often involves lifestyle and dietary changes. Some effective strategies include:
- Dietary adjustments:
- Eat small, frequent meals instead of large ones.
- Avoid greasy, spicy, or fatty foods.
- Consume bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers, toast, and rice.
- Stay hydrated by sipping clear fluids such as water, ginger ale, or broth.
- Lifestyle changes:
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities.
- Sit up or lie with your head elevated to reduce symptoms.
- Avoid strong odors that can trigger nausea.
- Home remedies:
- Ginger (in tea, capsules, or candies) may help reduce nausea.
- Peppermint or lemon scents can be soothing.
- Acupressure or wristbands designed to prevent motion sickness.
- Over-the-counter medications:
- Antacids to neutralize stomach acid.
- Anti-nausea medications like dimenhydrinate or meclizine.
- Antihistamines to reduce nausea and vomiting.
When should you seek medical help for nausea and vomiting?
It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent or severe nausea and vomiting lasting more than a few days
- Inability to keep liquids down for more than 24 hours
- Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dark urine, or dizziness
- Vomiting blood or having blood in the stool
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Symptoms of a more serious condition, such as chest pain, confusion, or high fever
For more information about managing nausea and vomiting and their underlying causes, contact Digestive System Healthcare to schedule a consultation with our specialists.
