Chronic nausea, or persistent nausea that lasts for weeks or months, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. It can make it difficult to engage in daily activities, affect appetite, and lead to depression and anxiety.

While the most commonly known causes of chronic nausea are pregnancy, motion sickness, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), there are many lesser-known causes that can lead to chronic nausea.

In this article, we will explore six of these causes in more detail.

1. Migraines

Migraines are a type of headache that can cause chronic nausea in some individuals. In fact, nausea is one of the most common symptoms of migraines and can occur before or during a headache.

The exact cause of migraine-associated nausea is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the release of certain chemicals in the brain.

Other symptoms of migraines include sensitivity to light and sound, pain on one side of the head, and visual disturbances.

2. Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition in which the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood properly.

In addition to the more commonly known symptoms of CKD, such as fatigue, high blood pressure, and poor concentration, chronic nausea can also occur as a result of CKD.

This is likely due to the accumulation of waste products in the blood that the kidneys cannot remove. In severe cases, CKD can lead to kidney failure, which can cause severe nausea and vomiting.

3. Medications

Many medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, can cause chronic nausea as a side effect. This can include medications such as antibiotics, pain relievers, and antidepressants.

If an individual experiences chronic nausea after starting a new medication, they should speak with their healthcare provider to determine if a different medication can be prescribed.

In some cases, adjusting the dosage or timing of medication can also help alleviate chronic nausea.

4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including chronic nausea. IBS affects the gastrointestinal tract and can lead to changes in bowel movements, abdominal pain, and bloating.

The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to abnormal contractions in the muscles of the intestines.

5. Inner Ear Disorders

The inner ear is responsible for balance and spatial orientation, and disorders of the inner ear can cause chronic nausea in some individuals.

Disorders such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and labyrinthitis can cause symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and nausea.

Treatment for inner ear disorders can include medication, physical therapy, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the disorder.

6. Anxiety

Anxiety and chronic nausea are often linked, with individuals who suffer from anxiety experiencing feelings of nausea as a symptom of their anxiety.

Anxiety can also cause other physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, and difficulty breathing.

Treatment for anxiety-related nausea may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Conclusion

Chronic nausea can be a debilitating condition that negatively impacts an individual’s quality of life.

While the most well-known causes of chronic nausea are pregnancy, motion sickness, and GERD, there are many other underlying medical conditions that can lead to chronic nausea.

If an individual is experiencing chronic nausea, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

With proper treatment, chronic nausea can be successfully managed, allowing individuals to regain their quality of life.