Nausea

What Is Nausea?

Nausea is the unpleasant sensation of feeling sick to your stomach, often accompanied by the urge to vomit. It is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of many different health conditions. Nausea can range from mild discomfort to severe, persistent symptoms that interfere with daily activities.

People of all ages experience nausea at some point. While it is often short-lived, ongoing or severe nausea may signal an underlying medical issue that needs evaluation by a health care provider.

What Causes Nausea?

Nausea can be caused by a wide range of factors affecting the digestive system, nervous system or inner ear.

Common causes include:

• Stomach infections: Viral or bacterial illnesses such as stomach flu or food poisoning
• Digestive conditions: Acid reflux, gastritis, ulcers or gallbladder disease
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes, especially during the first trimester
• Medications: Side effects from antibiotics, pain medications, chemotherapy or anesthesia
• Motion sickness: Disruption of balance signals from the inner ear
• Stress or anxiety: Strong emotional responses can affect the stomach
• Migraines: Nausea often occurs with migraine headaches
  
  

In some cases, nausea may have more than one contributing cause.

Signs and Symptoms Associated With Nausea

Nausea may occur alone or with other symptoms, depending on the cause.

Common associated symptoms include:

• Feeling queasy or unsettled in the stomach
• Vomiting or dry heaving
• Loss of appetite
• Excess saliva or sweating
• Abdominal discomfort or bloating
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  
  

Persistent nausea lasting more than a few days, or nausea accompanied by severe symptoms, should be evaluated by a health care provider.

How Is Nausea Evaluated?

Diagnosing the cause of nausea starts with a review of symptoms and medical history.

Diagnostic Steps May Include:

• Medical history: Discussion of recent illness, diet, medications and stress levels
• Physical exam: Evaluation of the abdomen and hydration status
• Lab tests: Blood or urine tests to check for infection, dehydration or metabolic issues
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound or CT scan if an abdominal condition is suspected
  
  

Identifying the underlying cause is key to choosing the most effective treatment.

How Is Nausea Treated?

Treatment for nausea depends on the cause and severity of symptoms.

At-Home Care
For mild nausea, simple steps may help relieve discomfort:

• Taking small sips of water or clear fluids
• Eating bland foods such as crackers, rice or toast
• Avoiding strong smells or greasy foods
• Resting in an upright position
  
  

Medications
A health care provider may recommend or prescribe:

• Anti-nausea medications (antiemetics)
• Acid-reducing medications for reflux-related nausea
• Motion sickness medications when appropriate
  
  

Medical Treatment
Severe or ongoing nausea may require:

• IV fluids for dehydration
• Medication adjustments if nausea is drug-related
• Targeted treatment for underlying conditions such as infections or digestive disorders

How to Reduce the Risk of Nausea

While nausea cannot always be prevented, certain strategies may help reduce episodes.

Helpful prevention tips include:

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoiding trigger foods and strong odors
• Staying hydrated throughout the day
• Managing stress and anxiety
• Taking medications with food when advised

Occasional nausea is common and usually temporary, but frequent or persistent nausea can affect quality of life. Working with a health care provider can help identify triggers, manage symptoms and address any underlying conditions.

If nausea is severe, ongoing or accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, severe abdominal pain or signs of dehydration, seek medical care promptly.

If you have concerns about symptoms, testing or treatment options, a health care provider can help guide you through next steps and connect you with the care you need.

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If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

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