Nausea

If you feel nauseous, it’s important to listen to your body. Avoid solid foods for a few hours, drink water or a clear soda (without ice), and eat light, bland foods when you start eating again. It’s also helpful to avoid lying flat, and to sit or lie in a comfortable position.

You should see a doctor if your nausea is accompanied by severe headache, rash, blood in vomit, dehydration, severe stomach pain, or if it lasts for more than 48 hours. Also, if you suspect poisoning or have a high fever, seek medical help immediately.

Your doctor might ask when the nausea began, if you've vomited, what other symptoms you have, your recent eating habits, medication use, and any history of abdominal surgeries. The answers help the doctor narrow down the possible causes of nausea.

Several tests can be used to diagnose the cause of nausea. Blood tests can help rule out infections. Imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds can help visualize the abdomen to look for any abnormalities. Your doctor may also recommend an endoscopy to look at the inside of your stomach.

An endoscopy is performed to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of your small intestine. It helps to diagnose ulcers, gastritis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, which can cause nausea.

Some home remedies that can alleviate nausea include drinking ginger tea, using peppermint essential oil, consuming smaller meals, using acupressure, and staying hydrated. Always consult your doctor before trying new remedies, especially if you have chronic health issues or are pregnant.

Several medications can help relieve nausea. Antacids can help if the nausea is due to heartburn or indigestion. Anti-nausea medications like Dramamine can help with motion sickness. Prescription medications like Zofran are used for severe cases of nausea, especially those due to chemotherapy or surgery.

While not all cases of nausea can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk. Eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding foods that are difficult to digest, and avoiding triggers like strong smells or spicy foods can help. It’s also important to manage stress, as this can contribute to nausea.