Nausea with or without vomiting is not considered a disease, but rather a symptom of many possible conditions. Nausea and vomiting are controlled by the same parts of the brain that control involuntary bodily functions, says eMedicine. Only a physician can correctly diagnose your condition. Nausea and vomiting can sometimes be symptoms of more serious diseases, such as heart attacks, kidney or liver disorders, central nervous system disorders, brain tumors and some forms of cancer, according to the Cleveland Clinic. If you are suffering from nausea that lasts more than a few days, contact your healthcare provider.
Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is a common trigger of nausea. The brain senses movement by getting signals from the inner ears, eyes, muscles and joints. When it gets signals that do not match, you can get motion sickness, says Medline. If you know that you are likely to experience motion sickness, there are options, such as trigger-point wristbands or pharmaceutical drugs called anti-emetics.
Gastrointestinal Illness
Nausea may be caused by different types of gastrointestinal illnesses. Food poisoning or rotavirus may cause nausea with or without vomiting. Sometimes spicy or different types of foods may also cause nausea in certain individuals. Nausea caused by viral illness or food poisoning usually subsides within 24 to 48 hours. If your nausea continues and becomes mores severe and is accompanied by fever, contact your provider.
Pregnancy
Nausea is a common symptom of pregnancy. It usually occurs in the first trimester (first 12 weeks) of a pregnancy. It is associated with the rise in pregnancy hormones. There is no cure for nausea during pregnancy. Eating smaller meals more frequently and avoiding spicy foods may help combat nausea. Ginger and peppermint decaffeinated teas may also alleviate nausea during pregnancy.
Medication
Many different medications are known to cause nausea. If you start taking a new drug and begin to experience nausea, it may be due to your medication. Read the package insert and label of your medication to determine which side effects may be associated with that particular drug. If nausea becomes intolerable speak with your physician, they may have to alter your medication.
