Doctors Note Logo

Back

Published on: 11/18/2024

What Should I Do When I Am Feeling Nauseous All the Time But Not Throwing Up?

If you are feeling nauseous all the time but not throwing up, it is important to identify the underlying cause and take appropriate steps to manage your symptoms. This may include lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and consulting a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

answer background

Explanation

Understanding Chronic Nausea:

Chronic nausea can be a frustrating and debilitating symptom that affects your quality of life. It can arise from various causes, including gastrointestinal disorders, medication side effects, anxiety, and other underlying health conditions. Identifying the specific cause is crucial for effective management.

Common Causes of Chronic Nausea:

  • Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), and peptic ulcers can lead to persistent nausea. These conditions may disrupt normal digestion and cause discomfort.
  • Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, including pain relievers, antibiotics, and chemotherapy drugs, can cause nausea as a side effect. If you have recently started a new medication, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
  • Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors, such as anxiety and stress, can contribute to feelings of nausea. The gut-brain connection means that emotional states can significantly impact digestive function.
  • Underlying Health Conditions: Chronic nausea can also be associated with other health issues, such as migraines, hormonal imbalances, or infections. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional can help identify any underlying conditions.

Possible Steps to Manage Nausea:

  • Dietary Adjustments: Eating small, frequent meals instead of large ones can help reduce nausea. Focus on bland, easy-to-digest foods, such as crackers, rice, bananas, and applesauce. Avoiding spicy, greasy, or strong-smelling foods may also be beneficial.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking clear fluids, such as water, herbal teas, or clear broths, can help prevent dehydration and may alleviate nausea. Sipping fluids slowly can be more effective than drinking large amounts at once.
  • Ginger and Peppermint: Natural remedies like ginger tea or peppermint tea may help soothe nausea. Ginger has been shown to be effective in reducing nausea, while peppermint can help relax the stomach muscles.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga, can help reduce stress and anxiety, which may alleviate nausea.
  • Consult a Healthcare Professional: If nausea persists or worsens, it is important to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including physical examinations and tests, to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments.

When to Seek Immediate Help:

If you experience severe nausea accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, or signs of dehydration (such as dizziness or dark urine), it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

(References)

  • Tome J, Kamboj AK, Sweetser S. A Practical 5-Step Approach to Nausea and Vomiting. Mayo Clin Proc. 2022 Mar;97(3):600-608. doi: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2021.10.030. PMID: 35246289.

  • Lacy BE, Parkman HP, Camilleri M. Chronic nausea and vomiting: evaluation and treatment. Am J Gastroenterol. 2018 May;113(5):647-659. doi: 10.1038/s41395-018-0039-2. Epub 2018 Mar 15. PMID: 29545633.

  • Jung HK, Tae CH, Moon CM, Kim SE, Shim KN, Jung SA. Chronic unexplained nausea in adults: Prevalence, impact on quality of life, and underlying organic diseases in a cohort of 5096 subjects comprehensively investigated. PLoS One. 2019 Dec 19;14(12):e0225364. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225364. PMID: 31856259; PMCID: PMC6922349.

Share this page

smily Shiba-inu peeking down

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Ask a Doctor

Shiba

Discuss it further with a doctor

Chat with one of our doctors to get clarity on your results and decide on your next steps.


Dr. Kenji Taylor

Family Medicine, Primary Care Roots Community Health Center, Hippo Education, Kameda Medical Center

Kenji Taylor, MD

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes, and the provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical practice. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.