What causes nausea?

Nausea is that queasy or unsettling sensation in your stomach that makes you feel as though you might throw up, or involuntarily empty the contents of your stomach through your mouth.

Some of the problems or conditions that can trigger nausea come from your stomach or intestines, including:

• Bacterial infection
• Viral gastroenteritis
• Food allergy or intolerance
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Traumatic injury

Dizziness, motion sickness, and ear infections — three common problems that originate in your inner ear — can trigger nausea and vomiting as well. Nausea may also be a symptom of a condition that originates in your brain, such as:

• Head injury or concussion
• Meningitis, or a brain infection
• Brain tumors
• Migraine headaches

Who is most commonly affected by nausea?

Nausea and vomiting affect children and adults in equal measure, but often for different reasons. Adults are more likely to experience nausea from a viral infection and food poisoning, but less often from motion sickness. Children are more likely to feel nauseous from motion sickness, overeating or overfeeding, and food poisoning.

Cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy treatments often have to deal with persistent nausea and vomiting.

Early pregnancy also correlates with an increased incidence of nausea and vomiting, which is commonly called morning sickness. Roughly 50-90% of all pregnant women experience nausea in their first trimester, and 25-55% of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting.

How can I control or relieve nausea?

If you feel queasy, you may be able to subdue your nausea by trying one or more of the following techniques:

• Drink clear or ice-cold liquids
• Drink beverages slowly
• Eat light, bland foods like crackers
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Don’t mix hot and cold foods
• Skip fatty, greasy, or sugary foods
• Avoid activity after eating

If these strategies don’t work, stop by and see the team at My Emergency Room 24/7.

When does nausea require medical care?

You should seek prompt medical care if vomiting accompany your nausea and it lasts for longer than 24 hours. This is especially true if you notice signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, dry skin, infrequent urination, or urine that’s dark yellow.

Emergency medical attention is also warranted if you suspect you have food poisoning, or your nausea is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, headache, neck stiffness, or you’re vomiting blood.

In case of persistent or severe nausea, call the team at My Emergency Room 24/7 or stop in for an immediate appointment any time.