Everyone has experienced the sensation of nausea at some point in their lives. Nausea is not an illness; it is a symptom of an underlying condition that can range from minor indigestion to a serious medical condition.

This article will discuss what you can expect when you feel nauseous, potential causes of nausea, and what you can do to alleviate symptoms.

What is Nausea?

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation that is often accompanied by an urge to vomit. The feeling of nausea can range from mild to severe and can last for only a few minutes or several hours. Nausea can be caused by a wide range of conditions, including:.

Pregnancy
Viral infections
Bacterial infections
Motion sickness
Food poisoning
Chemotherapy

What are the Symptoms of Nausea?

Symptoms of nausea can vary depending on the cause, but they generally include:.

A queasy feeling in the stomach
A sensation of being full
An urge to vomit
Increased saliva production
Pale skin

What are the Main Causes of Nausea?

Nausea can be caused by a wide range of conditions, including:.

Pregnancy

Nausea is a common symptom of pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. This is known as morning sickness and is caused by the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Morning sickness usually subsides after the first trimester.

Infections

Viral and bacterial infections can cause nausea and vomiting. Gastroenteritis, or the stomach flu, is a common viral infection that causes nausea and vomiting along with diarrhea and fever.

Bacterial infections, such as food poisoning, can also cause nausea and vomiting.

Motion Sickness

Motion sickness is a type of nausea that occurs when the body’s sense of balance is disrupted. This can happen when you are on a boat, train, or plane, or even when you are in a car.

Migraines

Migraines are severe headaches that can cause nausea and vomiting. Migraines are often accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound.

Medications

Some medications can cause nausea as a side effect. Chemotherapy drugs, painkillers, and antibiotics are known to cause nausea and vomiting.

How is Nausea Diagnosed?

Your doctor will take a medical history and perform a physical exam to diagnose the cause of your nausea. They may also order blood tests, urine tests, or imaging tests, such as an X-ray or ultrasound, to rule out other conditions.

How is Nausea Treated?

The treatment for nausea will depend on the underlying cause. If your nausea is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, your doctor may recommend rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to alleviate symptoms.

If your nausea is caused by motion sickness, your doctor may prescribe medication to prevent symptoms.

If your nausea is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as migraines or pregnancy, your doctor may prescribe medication to alleviate symptoms.

They may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to prevent future episodes of nausea.

What Can You Do to Alleviate Nausea?

There are several things you can do to alleviate symptoms of nausea:.

Avoid strong smells or odors that may worsen symptoms
Eat small, frequent meals instead of large meals
Drink fluids, such as water or ginger ale, to stay hydrated
Avoid spicy or greasy foods that may worsen symptoms
Rest in a quiet, dark room
Try relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, to reduce stress

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should see a doctor if your nausea is severe or persistent, or if you have other symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, or diarrhea. You should also see a doctor if you are pregnant and experiencing severe nausea or vomiting.

If you are experiencing symptoms of dehydration, such as dark urine, dry mouth, or fatigue, seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

Nausea is a common symptom that can be caused by a wide range of conditions. If you are experiencing nausea, it is important to identify the underlying cause so that you can receive proper treatment.

There are several things you can do at home to alleviate symptoms, but if your nausea is severe or persistent, or if you have other symptoms, you should see a doctor.