Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms that almost everyone will experience at some point in their lives. Whether it’s caused by a stomach bug, motion sickness, or something more serious, these uncomfortable sensations can significantly disrupt your activities. Fortunately, there are various strategies to help manage nausea and vomiting effectively. Here are some tips from Emergency Medicine experts
Try to Figure Out the Cause of Your Nausea and Vomiting
It sounds obvious, but first and foremost, it is important to distinguish between nausea and vomiting that is being caused by an issue that can be managed at home versus something that requires quick medical attention. For example, nausea and vomiting caused by a stomach bug can usually be managed at home, whereas nausea and vomiting following a head injury should be dealt with at an emergency department. So, trying to determine what the cause of the nausea and vomiting may be is important. Consider what activities you have undertaken in the past 24-48 hours.
Common causes of nausea and vomiting that can be managed at home include:
- Stomach Viruses: Gastroenteritis, commonly known as the stomach flu, is a common cause of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Abdominal cramps and fever often accompany these symptoms.
- Motion Sickness: Traveling in cars, planes, or boats can trigger motion sickness, characterized by feelings of nausea, dizziness, and vomiting.
- Food Poisoning: Consuming contaminated food or beverages can lead to food poisoning, resulting in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Symptoms typically develop within hours of ingesting the contaminated food. If those around you have similar symptoms and have consumed similar items, that is a good sign that it is food poisoning.
- Pregnancy: Nausea and vomiting, commonly referred to as morning sickness, are common symptoms experienced by many pregnant women, particularly during the first trimester. Hormonal changes and increased sensitivity to certain odors may contribute to these symptoms.
- Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, opioids, and antibiotics, can cause nausea and vomiting as side effects. Adjusting the dosage or switching to alternative medications may help alleviate these symptoms.
- Migraines: Some individuals experience nausea and vomiting as accompanying symptoms of migraines, severe headaches characterized by throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances.
Symptom Management
If the cause of your nausea and vomiting is likely one of the above, then managing symptoms at home is appropriate. Symptom management includes some of the following:
Stay Hydrated
Drinking small sips of clear fluids, such as water, ginger ale, or electrolyte solutions, can help prevent dehydration and replenish lost fluids from vomiting. Avoid consuming large quantities of fluids too quickly, which may exacerbate nausea.
Eat Bland Foods
When experiencing nausea, avoid bland, easily digestible foods such as crackers, toast, rice, or bananas. These foods are gentle on the stomach and help alleviate nausea without triggering further discomfort.
Try Ginger
Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties and can be consumed in various forms, including ginger tea, ginger ale, or ginger candies. Sipping ginger tea or sucking on ginger candies may help calm an upset stomach and reduce nausea.
Practice Deep Breathing
Deep breathing exercises can help relax the body and alleviate nausea and vomiting. If nauseous, try taking slow, deep breaths through your nose and out through your mouth, focusing on filling your abdomen with air.
Know When to Seek Medical Attention
While most cases of nausea and vomiting are self-limiting and resolve on their own with home remedies, there are instances where medical attention is warranted. Seek urgent medical care if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent vomiting lasting more than 24 hours
- Severe dehydration, indicated by dark urine, dry mouth, or dizziness
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Signs of abdominal pain, such as severe cramping or tenderness
- Nausea or vomiting that is accompanied by a high temperature that persists
- Confusion, lethargy, or fainting spells
- You have experienced recent trauma to the head
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms from various causes, ranging from benign to more serious. By understanding the common triggers of these symptoms and implementing expert-recommended management strategies, you can find relief and improve your overall symptoms. Remember to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. This is especially true for toddlers and young children.
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