Causes of Nausea: What Makes You Feel Queasy?

Nausea is a common symptom that can have many underlying causes, from gastrointestinal issues to mental health conditions.¹ It is the uncomfortable feeling that precedes vomiting, though nausea and vomiting can also occur separately. Nausea and vomiting are not diseases themselves but rather symptoms of various medical conditions. Understanding the potential triggers for nausea is important for managing this unpleasant sensation. This comprehensive guide will explore the most common causes of nausea, helping readers identify the underlying reason and find appropriate remedies.

Key Takeaways

Nausea can be caused by a wide range of factors, including gastrointestinal issues, viral infections, mental health conditions, and medication side effects.
Nausea is a common symptom during pregnancy, affecting 50%-90% of women, and can be particularly severe in cases of hyperemesis gravidarum.
Migraines and other neurological conditions are often accompanied by nausea and vomiting as a result of the complex interactions between the brain, nervous system, and digestive system.
Staying hydrated and making dietary and lifestyle changes can help alleviate nausea in many cases, but seeking medical attention is recommended if nausea is persistent or accompanied by concerning symptoms.
Recognizing the signs that nausea may be indicative of a more serious underlying condition, such as dehydration or a heart attack, is crucial for ensuring timely and appropriate medical intervention.

Understanding Nausea and Its Triggers

Nausea is a subjective feeling of unease and discomfort in the stomach, often accompanied by an urge to vomit.² It is a symptom that can be triggered by a wide range of factors, both physiological and psychological.² Understanding the definition of nausea and how it differs from vomiting is crucial for identifying and managing the underlying cause.

What is Nausea?

Nausea is the uncomfortable sensation that precedes the act of vomiting, though the two experiences are not always intertwined.² Nausea is a subjective feeling, meaning that it is a personal experience that can vary in intensity and duration from individual to individual.

Differentiating Nausea from Vomiting

While nausea and vomiting often occur together, they are distinct experiences. Nausea is the unpleasant sensation of feeling like one is about to vomit, whereas vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth.² Nausea can occur without vomiting, and vomiting can occur without preceding nausea. Understanding the nuances between these two related yet distinct sensations is essential for identifying and addressing the underlying cause.

The ability to recognize the differences between nausea and vomiting can help individuals better manage their symptoms and seek appropriate treatment.² By understanding the unique characteristics of each, individuals can work with healthcare providers to develop effective strategies for alleviating nausea and vomiting, ultimately improving their overall well-being.

Gastrointestinal Causes of Nausea

One of the most common causes of nausea is gastrointestinal issues. Food poisoning, often caused by the ingestion of contaminated food or drink, can trigger nausea and vomiting as the body attempts to expel the harmful substances.poisoning nausea> Viral infections affecting the stomach and intestines, such as the “stomach flu,” can also induce nausea.infections nausea> Additionally, various digestive disorders, including gastritis, gastroparesis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and conditions affecting the gallbladder or pancreas, can all contribute to feelings of nausea.disorders nausea>

Food Poisoning and Viral Infections

Food poisoning, often caused by the ingestion of contaminated food or drink, can trigger nausea and vomiting as the body attempts to expel the harmful substances.poisoning nausea> Viral infections affecting the stomach and intestines, such as the “stomach flu,” can also induce nausea.infections nausea>¹ Vomiting with diarrhea is often the result of either stomach flu or food poisoning, with a risk of dehydration in children and older people.

Digestive Disorders

Various digestive disorders, including gastritis, gastroparesis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and conditions affecting the gallbladder or pancreas, can all contribute to feelings of nausea.disorders nausea>³ In a gallbladder attack, sudden right-side abdominal pain after a heavy meal can signal the presence of gallstones blocking the tube carrying bile, resulting in nausea and sometimes vomiting.³ Gastroparesis, a digestive disorder slowing food movement from the stomach to the small intestine, may lead to nausea along with symptoms like abdominal pain, feeling full quickly while eating, and unintended weight loss.

Viral Infections and Nausea

Viral infections that target the respiratory system can also induce nausea as a symptom. In the case of influenza (the flu), nausea and vomiting are more common in children compared to adults, though both age groups may experience these gastrointestinal symptoms.⁴ Similarly, research has shown that up to 79% of individuals with COVID-19 may experience nausea as a symptom of the illness.⁵ The connection between viral infections and nausea highlights the complex interaction between the digestive and immune systems.

Influenza (Flu)

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, can lead to nausea and vomiting, particularly in children.⁴ The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, and its gastrointestinal symptoms are more prevalent in younger individuals. Understanding the impact of the flu on nausea is crucial for managing this unpleasant side effect and addressing the underlying viral infection.

COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought increased attention to the wide range of symptoms associated with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, including nausea. Research indicates that up to 79% of individuals with COVID-19 may experience nausea as a symptom of the illness.⁵ This emphasizes the importance of recognizing nausea as a potential indicator of COVID-19 infection, particularly in conjunction with other common symptoms such as fever, cough, and fatigue.

Mental Health and Emotional Factors

The connection between mental health and physical symptoms, including nausea, is well-established.⁶ Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress can directly impact the functioning of the gastrointestinal system, leading to feelings of anxiety nausea and stress nausea.⁷ The close relationship between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the “gut-brain axis,” means that emotional and psychological factors can significantly influence the occurrence of mental health nausea.

⁶ Nausea is strongly associated with anxiety disorders, increasing the risk of nausea by more than three times according to one study.⁶ Stress-induced vomiting may be more common in individuals with severe anxiety disorders, as per another study.⁶ People with pre-existing anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder are more susceptible to stress vomiting, and trauma resulting in PTSD can lead to stress vomiting as part of the symptom profile.⁷ Addressing underlying mental health concerns may be an important step in managing persistent or recurrent nausea.

Condition	Impact on Nausea
Anxiety Disorders	⁶Increased risk of nausea by more than three times
Severe Anxiety Disorders	⁶More common stress-induced vomiting
Generalized Anxiety Disorder	⁶More susceptible to stress vomiting
Panic Disorder	⁶More susceptible to stress vomiting
PTSD	⁶Stress vomiting as part of symptom profile

⁶ It is challenging to determine an exact occurrence rate for stress vomiting due to variations among individuals in physiological and psychological factors.⁶ Stress vomiting is not as common as other stress-related symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, or sleep disturbances.

⁷ Stress-induced nausea is a real phenomenon, and⁷ stress can lead to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and vomiting.⁷ Certain underlying health conditions, like gastrointestinal issues (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome) and mental health conditions (e.g., depression and anxiety), can make individuals more susceptible to stress-induced nausea.⁷ Recommendations to prevent stress-induced nausea include regular exercise, meditation, and maintaining a healthy diet.⁷ Studies have shown that peppermint can help reduce mild nausea.⁷ When stress-induced nausea becomes a regular issue, consulting a healthcare provider is advised for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Inner Ear Disorders and Motion Sickness

Conditions affecting the inner ear and vestibular system can also trigger nausea.⁸ Motion sickness, which occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals about movement and balance, often leads to nausea and vomiting.⁹ Labyrinthitis, an inner ear infection that can develop after a cold or flu, and vestibular neuritis, an inflammation of the vestibular nerve, can both disrupt the balance system and contribute to nausea and dizziness.⁸ Understanding the role of the inner ear in maintaining equilibrium and the connection to nausea is important for identifying and treating these underlying causes.

Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is an inner ear infection that can develop after a cold or flu.⁸ This condition disrupts the balance system, leading to nausea, dizziness, and vertigo.⁸ Individuals with labyrinthitis may experience a spinning sensation, difficulty maintaining balance, and sensitivity to sudden movements.⁸

Vestibular Neuritis

Vestibular neuritis is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and equilibrium.⁸ This condition can also trigger nausea, dizziness, and vertigo, as the disruption to the vestibular system leads to conflicting signals being sent to the brain.⁸ Vestibular neuritis is often caused by viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, or may occur after a head injury.⁸

Condition	Symptoms	Causes
Labyrinthitis	Nausea, dizziness, vertigo	Inner ear infection, often after a cold or flu
Vestibular Neuritis	Nausea, dizziness, vertigo	Inflammation of the vestibular nerve, often caused by viral infections or head injuries

Conditions affecting the inner ear and vestibular system can disrupt the body’s balance and equilibrium, leading to the unpleasant symptoms of nausea and dizziness.⁹⁸¹⁰ Understanding the underlying causes of these inner ear disorders and their connection to motion sickness is crucial for effectively managing and treating these conditions.

Pregnancy and Morning Sickness

Nausea is a common and well-known symptom of pregnancy, often referred to as “morning sickness.” Occurring in up to 90% of pregnancies, nausea during the first trimester is believed to be related to the rapid increase in the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).¹¹ For most women, morning sickness improves or resolves by the second trimester, but in some cases, a more severe form called hyperemesis gravidarum can develop, leading to dehydration and malnutrition, possibly requiring specialist treatment.¹¹

Factors such as hormonal changes in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, having twins or multiples, previous severe sickness in pregnancy, history of motion sickness or migraines, family history of morning sickness, and obesity (BMI 30 or more) may increase the risk of morning sickness.¹¹ Women with nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy have a lower risk of miscarriage compared to those without these symptoms.¹² Pregnant women with severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum) have higher levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), and pregnant women with twins or multiples are more likely to experience morning sickness due to higher HCG levels.¹²

If lifestyle changes do not alleviate pregnancy nausea symptoms, anti-sickness medicine may be recommended by a healthcare provider, especially for severe cases like hyperemesis gravidarum.¹¹ Treatments for morning sickness include lifestyle changes like resting, avoiding trigger smells, and consuming small, frequent meals, as well as potentially adding ginger to the diet.¹¹ Estrogen levels increase during pregnancy and are associated with heightened severity of nausea and vomiting.¹² A lack of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy does not necessarily indicate any issues, as some women with healthy pregnancies do not experience morning sickness.¹²

Thyroid Disorders and Nausea

Imbalances in thyroid hormones, both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can contribute to feelings of nausea.¹³ One study reported an overt hypothyroidism prevalence of 9.3% in women and 1.3% in men,¹³ and hypothyroidism is more common in females than in males, with a ratio of 6:1.¹³ The annual incidence of hypothyroidism is reported to be 40/10,000 in women and 6/10,000 in men.¹³ The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism, and disruptions in this system can lead to digestive issues and nausea.

Individuals with thyroid disorders may also experience nausea as a side effect of the medications used to manage their condition.¹³ Treatment with levothyroxine for hypothyroidism typically starts at 25 µg daily, increasing to 50 µg and then to 75 µg as a maintenance dose.¹³ Interestingly, there is little literature on hypothyroidism causing gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, making it an unusual presentation.¹³ However, symptoms of hypothyroidism-related nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain were resolved after initiating thyroid hormone replacement therapy.¹³

On the other hand,¹⁴ 44% of newly diagnosed thyrotoxicosis (hyperthyroidism) cases reported vomiting as a common symptom,¹⁴ 28% reported nausea as a common symptom,¹⁴ and 20% reported abdominal pain as a common symptom.¹⁴ Approximately 36% of newly diagnosed thyrotoxicosis cases included one or more abdominal symptoms as chief complaints.¹⁴ Patients with undiagnosed thyrotoxicosis may first be referred to cardiologists, gastroenterologists, or psychiatrists due to atypical presentation before being referred to endocrinologists, and misdiagnosis of thyrotoxicosis as gastrointestinal disorders due to rare symptoms like vomiting can lead to delays in treatment and unnecessary tests, potentially posing life-threatening risks.¹⁴

¹⁵ Approximately 1.3% of the U.S. population has hyperthyroidism,¹⁵ and nausea, vomiting, and other digestive issues can be experienced by individuals with hyperthyroidism.¹⁵ Elderly individuals with hyperthyroidism may show fewer symptoms, such as fatigue, weight loss, and agitation.¹⁵ Untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to a thyroid storm, a severe and life-threatening condition.¹⁵

Recognizing the link between thyroid function and nausea is important for identifying and addressing the underlying cause of this unpleasant symptom. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential for thyroid disorders to present with gastrointestinal symptoms, and patients with persistent or unexplained nausea may benefit from a comprehensive evaluation of their thyroid health.

Neurological Conditions and Migraines

Neurological conditions, particularly migraines, can also trigger nausea as a symptom.¹⁶ Migraines, which are characterized by severe, throbbing headaches, often occur alongside nausea and vomiting.¹⁷ The exact mechanisms linking neurological changes to nausea are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the complex interactions between the brain, nervous system, and digestive system.¹⁶ Other neurological disorders, such as brain tumors or head injuries, may also contribute to nausea.

¹⁷ Migraine affects one in five women, one in 16 men, and one in 11 children.¹⁶ Migraines affect adult women three times more often than men, and they are genetic, with most sufferers having a family history of the disorder.¹⁶ Migraines frequently occur in people who have other medical conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, and epilepsy.¹⁶ Individuals who have pre-migraine symptoms referred to as aura have a slightly increased risk of having a stroke.

¹⁷ Migraine attacks are three times more prevalent in women due to hormonal differences, and¹⁷ about 50 percent chance of a child developing migraines if a parent has migraines.¹⁷ Hormonal changes, such as estrogen fluctuations during menstrual periods, pregnancy, and perimenopause, can trigger migraines.¹⁶ Migraine in women is often related to changes in hormones and can begin at the start of the first menstrual cycle or during pregnancy.¹⁶ Women with migraine may see improvement after menopause, but surgical removal of the ovaries can worsen migraines.¹⁶ Women with migraine who take oral contraceptives may have changes in the frequency and severity of attacks.

¹⁷ Known triggers for migraines include medications, alcohol (especially red wine), caffeine, stress, sensory stimulation, sleep changes, weather changes, skipping meals, and certain foods like aged cheeses.¹⁷ Aura occurs in about a third of people with migraines, consisting of temporary reversible neurological symptoms that can include visual phenomena, numbness, difficulty speaking, and more.¹⁷ Migraine is diagnosed based on reported symptoms as there is no specific lab test or imaging study for diagnosis.

¹⁷ Treatment for migraines includes acute or rescue treatments for infrequent attacks and sometimes a combination of acute and preventive treatments to reduce frequency and severity.¹⁶ Preventive medicines are recommended if migraines occur one or more times weekly and are disabling.¹⁷ Lifestyle changes such as improving sleep routines, exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and keeping a migraine diary can also help manage migraines.

Medication Side Effects

Nausea is a common side effect of many medications, ranging from prescription drugs to over-the-counter medications.¹⁸ Certain classes of medications, such as chemotherapy agents, antibiotics, pain relievers, and psychiatric drugs, are known to frequently cause nausea as a side effect.¹⁸ The way these medications interact with the body’s chemical processes, particularly neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, can contribute to the sensation of nausea.¹⁸ Individuals taking medications that may trigger nausea should discuss this potential side effect with their healthcare provider and explore options for managing it.

Common Medications That Cause Nausea

¹⁸ Certain drug groups like antibiotics, aspirin, NSAIDs, some high blood pressure medications, antidepressants, cancer chemotherapy drugs, and Parkinson’s disease medications can lead to nausea when taken.¹⁹ Side effects can happen with almost any medication, ranging from birth control pills to cancer-fighting chemotherapy drugs.¹⁹ Many prescription drugs cause stomach problems like nausea, diarrhea, or constipation due to passing through the digestive system.

¹⁸ Causes of medication-induced nausea include the drug’s mechanism of action affecting the brain’s nausea control center, stomach irritation from certain NSAIDs, decreased drug absorption due to aging, and potential interactions between medications.¹⁸ Recommendations to alleviate medication-induced nausea include taking drugs with snacks, using stomach-calming drinks like ginger ale, dividing meals into smaller portions, avoiding lying down immediately after taking medication, and avoiding certain foods that are harder to digest.

¹⁸ Over-the-counter medications like stomach antacids, dimenhydrinate, or meclizine hydrochloride can help alleviate nausea, and in severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary, although they may cause drowsiness.¹⁸ Pregnant women should consult a doctor before taking any medication for nausea.¹⁸ If nausea persists despite these measures, the doctor may recommend additional medications or change to a different drug.

What causes nausea?

Nausea can have a wide range of underlying causes, from gastrointestinal issues and viral infections to mental health conditions and medication side effects.²⁰ Identifying the specific trigger for nausea is important for developing an effective treatment plan. Factors to consider when trying to determine the cause of nausea include the timing and frequency of the symptoms, any accompanying symptoms, and the individual’s medical history.

Identifying the Underlying Cause

Nausea can be a symptom of a variety of conditions, ranging from mild to severe. Some common causes of nausea include food poisoning, viral infections, digestive disorders, motion sickness, pregnancy (morning sickness),¹ thyroid imbalances, neurological conditions like migraines,¹ and medication side effects. Understanding the potential triggers for nausea can help individuals find the appropriate remedies and seek the necessary medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If nausea is persistent, recurring, or accompanied by concerning symptoms such as severe headache, fever, or signs of dehydration, it is advisable to seek medical attention.²⁰ Dehydration due to vomiting can be more risky in children and older adults, so it is crucial to monitor for signs of dehydration and seek medical care if necessary.¹ Recognizing when nausea may be indicative of a more serious underlying condition is essential for ensuring timely and appropriate medical intervention.

Managing Nausea at Home

For many cases of nausea, simple home remedies and lifestyle modifications can be effective in providing relief.²⁰ Dietary strategies may include consuming small, frequent meals of bland, easy-to-digest foods, such as crackers, toast, or rice, and avoiding greasy or spicy foods that may further upset the stomach.²⁰ Staying hydrated by sipping on clear liquids, such as water, ginger ale, or herbal teas, can also help alleviate nausea.²¹ Additionally, lifestyle factors like getting fresh air, avoiding strong odors, and practicing relaxation techniques may all contribute to managing nausea at home.

Dietary and Lifestyle Remedies

²⁰ Strategies to prevent nausea include eating small meals throughout the day instead of three large meals, eating slowly, avoiding hard-to-digest foods, consuming cold or room temperature foods, resting after eating with the head elevated about 12 inches above the feet, eating crackers before getting out of bed if nauseated in the morning, and consuming liquids between meals.²¹ Ginger has been shown to be effective in reducing nausea and vomiting caused by pregnancy or chemotherapy, with minimal side effects compared to antiemetic drugs.²¹ Peppermint has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing nausea due to chemotherapy and can be consumed in various forms such as capsules, tea, or oil.

Staying Hydrated

²⁰ Vomiting can sometimes be prevented by drinking small amounts of clear, sweetened liquids like soda, fruit juices (except orange and grapefruit), and ice pops.²⁰ Resting in a sitting or propped lying position is recommended to help alleviate nausea.²¹ Staying hydrated by drinking small sips of water regularly is essential if experiencing nausea with vomiting.

When to Seek Emergency Care

While nausea is not typically a medical emergency, there are certain circumstances in which immediate medical attention may be warranted.²² Nausea and vomiting accompanied by pain or a severe headache, especially if it’s a new type of headache, require immediate attention.²³ Stomach pain is reported as a top complaint among emergency room patients, and less common but serious causes of nausea and vomiting may include bowel obstruction, appendicitis, pancreatitis, and gallbladder infection.

Signs of a Serious Condition

If nausea is accompanied by severe, sudden headache; neck stiffness; fever; or signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, rapid breathing, or a rapid pulse, it is important to seek emergency care.²² Vomiting that lasts more than two days for adults, 24 hours for children under age 2 or 12 hours for infants, can also be a sign of a serious underlying condition.²³ Dehydration can occur rapidly (within hours) with repeated vomiting and little fluid intake, especially if accompanied by diarrhea, and dizziness, dry mouth, and weakness are indicators of dehydration that may lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly.

Nausea can also be an early warning sign of a heart attack, particularly in women, and should be taken seriously if it occurs alongside other symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or arm or jaw pain.²³ Presence of abdominal pain, blood in stool or vomit suggests the need for immediate medical attention.

Recognizing the signs that nausea may be indicative of a more serious underlying condition is crucial for ensuring timely and appropriate medical intervention.²² If experiencing bouts of nausea and vomiting for longer than one month or if there is unexplained weight loss along with nausea and vomiting, it is important to make an appointment with a doctor.

Conclusion

Nausea is a common and often unpleasant symptom that can have a wide range of underlying causes, from gastrointestinal issues and viral infections to mental health conditions and medication side effects.² Understanding the potential triggers for nausea, as well as the appropriate steps to manage it, is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. While many cases of nausea can be effectively treated with home remedies and lifestyle changes, it is important to seek medical attention if nausea is persistent, recurring, or accompanied by concerning symptoms.

The impact of nausea and vomiting on the US economy is significant, estimated to cost between $4 and $16 billion.² Furthermore, over 50% of adults reported experiencing at least one episode of nausea in the past 12 months, with over 30% reporting vomiting.² Interestingly, research has shown that women experience nausea more frequently than men, with the prevalence being three times higher in women.²

By identifying the root cause of nausea and implementing the right strategies for relief, individuals can find ways to minimize the discomfort and disruption caused by this common symptom.²⁴ Whether it’s managing gastrointestinal issues, addressing mental health concerns, or addressing medication-related side effects, understanding the causes of nausea and seeking appropriate medical attention when necessary can help individuals better navigate and overcome this unpleasant condition.

FAQ

What is nausea and how is it different from vomiting?

Nausea is the uncomfortable feeling that precedes vomiting, though nausea and vomiting can also occur separately. Nausea is a subjective feeling of unease and discomfort in the stomach, often accompanied by an urge to vomit. Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth.

What are the most common causes of nausea?

Nausea can be triggered by a wide range of factors, including gastrointestinal issues (food poisoning, viral infections, digestive disorders), viral infections affecting the respiratory system, mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, stress), inner ear disorders (motion sickness, labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis), pregnancy, thyroid imbalances, and medication side effects.

How is nausea related to viral infections like the flu and COVID-19?

Viral infections that target the respiratory system, such as influenza (the flu) and COVID-19, can induce nausea as a symptom. In the case of the flu, nausea and vomiting are more common in children compared to adults, though both age groups may experience these gastrointestinal symptoms. Research has also shown that up to 79% of individuals with COVID-19 may experience nausea as a symptom of the illness.

Can mental health conditions contribute to nausea?

Yes, the close relationship between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the “gut-brain axis,” means that emotional and psychological factors can significantly influence the occurrence of nausea. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress can directly impact the functioning of the gastrointestinal system, leading to feelings of nausea.

What is the connection between nausea and pregnancy?

Nausea, often referred to as “morning sickness,” is a common symptom of pregnancy, occurring in up to 90% of pregnancies. Nausea during the first trimester is believed to be related to the rapid increase in the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). In some cases, a more severe form called hyperemesis gravidarum can develop, requiring medical intervention.

Can thyroid disorders and neurological conditions also cause nausea?

Yes, imbalances in thyroid hormones, both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can contribute to feelings of nausea. Neurological conditions, particularly migraines, can also trigger nausea as a symptom.

What are some common medications that can cause nausea as a side effect?

Certain classes of medications, such as chemotherapy agents, antibiotics, pain relievers, and psychiatric drugs, are known to frequently cause nausea as a side effect. The way these medications interact with the body’s chemical processes can contribute to the sensation of nausea.

When should someone seek medical attention for nausea?

If nausea is accompanied by severe, sudden headache; neck stiffness; fever; or signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, rapid breathing, or a rapid pulse, it is important to seek emergency care. Nausea can also be an early warning sign of a heart attack, particularly in women, and should be taken seriously if it occurs alongside other symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or arm or jaw pain.

How can nausea be managed at home?

Simple home remedies and lifestyle modifications can be effective in providing relief for many cases of nausea. Dietary strategies may include consuming small, frequent meals of bland, easy-to-digest foods and staying hydrated by sipping on clear liquids. Additionally, getting fresh air, avoiding strong odors, and practicing relaxation techniques may all contribute to managing nausea at home.