Nausea and Vomiting: 5 Causes and Treatment Options

Nausea, often accompanied by vomiting, is one of the worst things to experience, especially if it happens frequently. Both are common symptoms that many people experience, regardless of age. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including illnesses, medications, and lifestyle habits.

In this blog, we will explore the various causes of nausea and vomiting and the available treatment options.

 

Causes of Nausea and Vomiting

1. Illnesses

Nausea and vomiting are commonly associated with illnesses like the flu, food poisoning, and gastroenteritis. These conditions are caused by viral or bacterial infections that affect the digestive system. Nausea and vomiting are the body's way of getting rid of harmful substances and preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream. The oral elimination of substances that might harm our body is one of the leading causes of nausea and vomiting.

2. Motion Sickness

Motion sickness is a common cause of nausea and vomiting, especially in people prone to dizziness. It occurs when the inner ear, which controls balance, sends mixed signals to the brain. This can happen when you are in a moving vehicle, such as a car or plane. Often, people who travel by sea are the ones who get incessant bouts of nausea and vomiting because of the constant motion due to waves.

3. Medications

Certain medications can cause nausea and vomiting as a side effect. Chemotherapy drugs, for example, are notorious for causing these symptoms. Other medications that can cause nausea and vomiting include antibiotics, pain relievers, and antidepressants.

 

4. Pregnancy

Morning sickness is a common symptom of pregnancy that affects many women in their first trimester. It is caused by hormonal changes in the body and can lead to nausea and vomiting. In some cases, pregnant women only feel nauseous but don’t feel the urge to vomit. However, in most cases, nausea and vomiting worsen during the 6^th to the 9^th week of the first trimester.

5. Dehydration

Dehydration can cause nausea and vomiting, especially in hot weather or after strenuous exercise. When the body is dehydrated, the digestive system slows down, which can lead to nausea and vomiting.

Treatment Options for Nausea and Vomiting

Rest is the best course of action when you’re feeling nauseous, and it’s important to rest and avoid any activities that may exacerbate the symptoms. Lie down in a quiet, dark room and try to take deep breaths. This can help reduce the feeling of nausea. Other treatment options include:

 

· Hydration

Drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent dehydration and reduce nausea and vomiting. Water, sports drinks, and clear broths are all good options. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, as they can make nausea worse.

· Medications

There are several over-the-counter medications that can help reduce nausea and vomiting. Antihistamines such as dimenhydrinate and diphenhydramine are commonly used to treat motion sickness. They work by blocking the signals from the inner ear that are causing the mixed signals to the brain.

· Prescription Medications

If over-the-counter medications and natural remedies are not effective, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications to treat nausea and vomiting. These medications include ondansetron, promethazine, and metoclopramide. These drugs work by blocking the signals from the brain that are causing nausea and vomiting.

· Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese, alternative medicine practice that involves inserting needles into specific points on the body. It has been shown to be effective in reducing nausea and vomiting in some people.

 

· Lifestyle Changes

Making certain lifestyle changes can help prevent nausea and vomiting. Avoiding foods that are high in fat and sugar, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough rest are all important steps to take. If you are prone to motion sickness, try to sit in a seat that is facing forward and avoid reading or using electronic devices.

All in all, this condition shouldn’t ring alarm bells, as it’s easily treatable, and now, you don’t even have to leave your home to get a doctor’s opinion because TelMDCare’s online doctors are just an appointment away.

We can help you overcome the feeling of nausea in no time at all, just for a meagre consultation fee of $39. You can also get in touch with us for treatment of erectile dysfunction, strep throat infection, and conjunctivitis.