Chronic Nausea: Causes, Remedies, and Solutions
Chronic nausea, a feeling of sickness or queasiness that lasts for extended periods, can be caused by a wide range of medical conditions. This article explores the most common causes, treatments, and home remedies for managing chronic nausea.
Gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, infections, and other abnormalities, are frequent causes of chronic nausea [1][5]. Medication side effects, including those from chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and pain relievers, can also lead to persistent nausea [5].
Pregnancy, while usually temporary, can persist in some cases throughout pregnancy, a condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum [2][5]. Cyclic vomiting syndrome, a disorder marked by recurrent episodes of nausea and vomiting, may also be a cause [3]. Stress, anxiety, nervous system problems, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic disorders can contribute to chronic nausea as well [3][5].
Treatment for chronic nausea depends on the underlying cause, so a proper diagnosis is essential. Prescription antiemetics (drugs that reduce nausea and vomiting) like ondansetron or metoclopramide are commonly used [1][5]. If nausea is a side effect of another medication, the dose may be adjusted or an alternative may be prescribed. Managing infections, gastrointestinal disorders, or hormonal imbalances can resolve nausea in many cases [1][5]. For cyclic vomiting syndrome, identified triggers should be avoided, and medications to prevent or stop episodes may be prescribed [3].
For mild cases, or in conjunction with medical treatment, home remedies may offer relief. Ginger, widely recognized for relieving nausea, can be consumed as tea, chews, candies, or capsules and is effective for motion sickness, morning sickness, and some types of chemotherapy-induced nausea [2][4]. Peppermint tea or essential oil (inhaled) may help ease nausea, including that related to digestive issues or post-surgery recovery [4]. Small, frequent meals, hydration, acupressure, rest, and fresh air can also provide some relief [4].
However, it is important to note that pregnant individuals and those with certain health conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using ginger or herbal preparations [2].
When chronic nausea persists or is accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, weight loss, fever, or blood in vomit, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional [1][5]. People who have been vomiting for 24 hours or longer, or those who cannot keep food or fluids down, should see a doctor as well. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment for chronic nausea [1][5].
References: [1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Chronic nausea and vomiting. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-nausea-and-vomiting/symptoms-causes/syc-20374158 [2] American Pregnancy Association. (2021). Hyperemesis gravidarum. Retrieved from https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/complications/hyperemesis-gravidarum/ [3] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Cyclic vomiting syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/cyclic-vomiting-syndrome [4] National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021). Ginger. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ginger [5] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Chronic nausea and vomiting. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17798-chronic-nausea-and-vomiting
- Gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, infections, and others can cause chronic nausea.
- Prescription antiemetics, such as ondansetron or metoclopramide, are often used to treat chronic nausea.
- Cyclic vomiting syndrome, marked by recurrent episodes of nausea and vomiting, may be a cause of chronic nausea.
- Pregnancy, especially hyperemesis gravidarum, can lead to chronic nausea, although it's usually temporary.
- Stress, anxiety, nervous system problems, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic disorders can contribute to chronic nausea.
- Treatment for chronic nausea depends on the underlying cause, so a proper diagnosis is necessary.
- Managing infections, gastrointestinal disorders, or hormonal imbalances can resolve nausea in many cases.
- Ginger, effective for motion sickness, morning sickness, and some types of chemotherapy-induced nausea, can help ease chronic nausea.
- Peppermint tea or essential oil may help ease chronic nausea, including that related to digestive issues or post-surgery recovery.
- Small, frequent meals, hydration, acupressure, rest, and fresh air can provide some relief from chronic nausea.
- Pregnant individuals and those with certain health conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using ginger or herbal preparations.
- When chronic nausea persists or is accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, weight loss, fever, or blood in vomit, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional.
- People who have been vomiting for 24 hours or longer, or those who cannot keep food or fluids down, should see a doctor as well.
- A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment for chronic nausea.
- Cyclic vomiting syndrome triggers should be avoided when possible.
- Medication side effects, including those from chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and pain relievers, can lead to persistent nausea.
- Adjusting medication doses or prescribing alternatives may help alleviate nausea caused by medication side effects.
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