WHAT CAUSES NAUSEA
Nausea is the uneasiness or the sensation of feeling to vomit ‘throwing up.’ It is not a disease but a symptom of a particular disease. Conditions such as stress, anxiety, illness, infections, and many others cause Nausea. It can be a sign of a severe condition like a heart attack, kidney disorder, or brain tumor. It occurs in both children and adults.
In this article, we will discuss five causes of Nausea.
- GASTROINTESTINAL INFECTIONS
They are caused by food poisoning or viral infections. Food poisoning occurs when one ingests foods or drinks infected by bacteria like salmonellae, and Escherichia coli, among others. The symptoms include Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. Severe vomiting can lead to the tearing of the esophagus. The infections clear on their own. Drinking clear fluids is also important in helping clear infections.
- HORMONAL CHANGES
Hormonal changes like pregnancy may also cause Nausea. In pregnancy, it is also known as morning sickness. The smells of certain foods trigger it. For some women, the Nausea ends during the first trimester, while it carries on throughout the pregnancy for others. Taking lots of clear fluids is advised to avoid dehydration. The physician may prescribe vitamin B6 to prevent Nausea. Expectant mothers should avoid getting hungry by taking small portions of meals frequently. Crackers relieve Nausea during pregnancy.
- EFFECTS OF MEDICATION
Medicines work by changing their chemical processes in the body. Nausea starts after taking the medication. Types of drugs like neurotransmitters work by changing their chemical process and are more likely to cause Nausea and vomiting. If it persists, one is advised to see the doctor.
- NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS
Neurological conditions cause Nausea and vomiting. Migraine is a condition that causes moderate to severe headaches. Other symptoms of the condition are sensitivity to light and vomiting. Treatment is by taking pain medications. If the condition is severe, one is advised to seek further treatment.
- ROTAVIRUS
It is a virus that causes severe diarrhea in young children. It is treated at home by taking lots of clear fluids to prevent dehydration. The other symptom is Nausea. Prevention is through vaccination or proper hygiene at home by washing hands frequently. The early signs are vomiting, Nausea which is later followed by severe diarrhea.
HOW TO PREVENT NAUSEA
- Drinking lots of clear fluids
- Eating slowly
- Eating when you feel less nauseated
- Eating small portions of meals during the day
- Avoiding hard foods
- Resting after taking meals
- Getting fresh air
- Drinking ginger
- Avoiding strong-smelling foods
- Avoiding spicy foods
- Avoid hot foods
CONCLUSION
If one experiences vomiting for more than a week, there is a need to visit a physician. If home treatment is not working, or if signs of dehydration, see the physician. Children between the ages of 3 to 6 months are often infected by rotavirus. It can lead to dehydration due to frequent diarrhea and vomiting. Since they cannot communicate their feelings, they should be given lots of clear fluids to prevent dehydration. In adults, signs of dehydration are sunken eyes, pale skin, dizziness, headaches, dry lips, decreased urination, and tiredness.
