Nausea & Vomiting

What Are Nausea and Vomiting?

Most people are familiar with the sensation that follows the consumption of something that upsets the stomach or occurs during cancer treatments. Alternatively, it may be an early sign of pregnancy. That distinctive ‘sick to the stomach’ feeling is common and well-known.

Generally, nausea is the uncomfortable sensation felt in the back of the throat or a sense of uneasiness in the stomach. It can be characterised by dizziness, light-headedness, or difficulty swallowing. Although nausea often accompanies the urge to vomit, it doesn’t necessarily lead to vomiting.

Vomiting refers to the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. When you vomit, the stomach muscles contract, pushing the contents up through the oesophagus and out of the mouth.

While nausea and vomiting are not considered illnesses in themselves, they are symptoms of various health conditions, such as:

• Infections like gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
• Food poisoning
• Pregnancy
• Motion sickness
• Migraines or headache-related nausea

Who Is More Likely to Experience Nausea and Vomiting?

Both children and adults can experience nausea and vomiting. However, individuals undergoing cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, are at a higher risk of experiencing these symptoms.

Additionally, pregnant women, particularly during the first trimester, may experience nausea and vomiting, often referred to as ‘morning sickness.’ Studies estimate that 50% to 90% of expectant women experience nausea, while 25% to 55% vomit.

Causes of Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are typically triggered by changes in the immune and central nervous systems. Various factors can contribute to these changes, including:

• Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastroparesis
• Seasickness and other forms of motion sickness
• Early pregnancy
• Severe pain
• Food poisoning
• Indigestion (feeling nauseous after eating)
• Infections
• Migraines
• Vertigo
• Specific smells or odours
• Overconsumption of alcohol or marijuana
• Side effects of certain medications, particularly those used in chemotherapy

Although vomiting is generally harmless, it can also indicate more serious conditions, such as:

• Concussions
• Meningitis
• Encephalitis
• Intestinal blockages
• Brain tumours
• Appendicitis

Care and Treatment

How Can I Get Rid of Nausea?

While effective remedies for nausea can vary from person to person, several home treatments may help manage or relieve the sensation. Some suggestions include:

• Drinking ice-cold or clear fluids
• Consuming light, bland meals like saltine crackers or plain bread
• Avoiding greasy, fried, or sugary foods
• Eating slowly and opting for smaller, more frequent meals
• Not combining hot and cold foods
• Sipping beverages slowly
• Avoiding any activity after meals
• Refraining from brushing your teeth immediately after eating
• Incorporating tolerable foods from all food groups to maintain balanced nutrition

Treatment options for vomiting include:

• Gradually increasing clear fluid intake
• Avoiding solid meals until vomiting subsides
• Resting

Nausea medications can also be effective for addressing vomiting; however, it’s essential to consult your doctor before trying any treatments.

Complications

What Are the Possible Complications of Nausea and Vomiting?

One major concern associated with vomiting is dehydration. Adults are generally less susceptible to dehydration, as they can recognise symptoms such as increased thirst and dry mouth or lips. However, children are more vulnerable, especially when experiencing vomiting and diarrhoea simultaneously. Adults should be vigilant for signs of dehydration in children, including:

• Dry mouth and lips
• Sunken eyes
• Rapid breathing or heart rate

For infants, parents should look for reduced urination and a sunken fontanelle (the soft spot on the top of the head).

Prevention

To help prevent nausea:

• Eat slowly
• Consume smaller food quantities throughout the day rather than three large meals
• Avoid foods that are difficult to digest
• Eat cold or room-temperature foods, as some individuals may feel nauseous from the smell of warm or hot food

Always rest after eating and elevate your head about 12 inches above your feet to ease nausea. For those who feel nauseous in the morning, eating crackers before getting out of bed or having a high-protein snack (like cheese or lean meat) before bedtime might help. Ensure you drink fluids between meals rather than during them, aiming for at least six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily to avoid dehydration. Also, try eating when you’re feeling less nauseous.

Preventing Vomiting Once You Feel Nauseated

Sometimes, vomiting can be prevented by consuming small amounts of clear, sugared liquids like soda, ice pops, and fruit juices (excluding orange and grapefruit due to their acidity). Afterward, rest by sitting or lying in a propped position, as any activity could exacerbate nausea and trigger vomiting.

To address motion sickness, ensure your child faces the front of the car if safe to do so, as looking at fast-moving objects through the side windows can worsen nausea.

Lastly, limit snacks and avoid sugary snacks with soda. Encourage your children to take breaks during snack time rather than eating while playing.

Additional Common Questions

What If I Have Constant Nausea?

If you experience persistent nausea, you might have a condition known as cyclic vomiting syndrome. This disorder is characterised by sudden attacks of intense nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Consult your healthcare provider if you exhibit signs of this syndrome, such as recurrent bouts of severe nausea accompanied by retching and vomiting.

A Note from MD.co.uk

Nausea and vomiting are never pleasant experiences. Whether due to overindulgence or fighting off an infection, they can be quite distressing. Fortunately, many cases of nausea and vomiting are not severe, and with some rest, a few saltine crackers, and sips of clear fluids, you will likely feel better soon.