1. Causes of Nausea
Nausea can be a debilitating symptom that accompanies IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome. Researchers have tried to pinpoint the causes, but the exact reasons it occurs are elusive. Nausea can be persistent and difficult for your doctor to treat.
Research suggests that nausea might be the result of pain associated with IBS. Constipation may also contribute to nausea. Many people report relief after having a bowel movement.
Food sensitivity or allergy is a consideration for anyone suffering from IBS. You may learn that specific foods or beverages trigger feelings of nausea. Overindulgence in alcohol and the use of certain medications can also cause ongoing bouts of nausea.
Viral or bacterial infection can prolong nausea, even after the illness has cleared up. Many IBS patients experience lingering problems after other symptoms disappear.
Flatulence and bloating, that often accompanies irritable bowel syndrome can produce nausea in anyone who experiences these symptoms for any reason.
2. Finding the Cause
Your doctor may become as frustrated as you may in trying to pinpoint the exact cause. It's important to remain alert to all of the possibilities to find ways to eliminate triggers.
Get to know your body. Keep a diary of your eating habits and other events and review what you may have done when you experience symptoms. You're likely to find a common pattern that induces nausea. Never assume IBS is the sole cause of your symptoms. It's important to rule out other medical causes.
3. The Role of Stress
Stress and nausea seem to provoke each other. Serotonin is a naturally occurring chemical that helps us manage stress. Widely prescribed antidepressants, called SSRI's provide the body with increased serotonin levels to treat anxiety and depression. Ninety five percent of serotonin receptors are located in the gastrointestinal tract. Stress management plays an important role in managing all symptoms of IBS.
4. Medical Treatment
Specific medications, called antichoinergics, can help with nausea, but may lead to constipation. Anticholinergics slow the movement in the gastrointestinal tract and decrease the amount of secretions, relieving spasms. Your doctor may prescribe anti-nausea medication, many of which have side effects of drowsiness and dry mouth.
5. Natural Remedies
Peppermint oil capsules are supported by research to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
Available supplements are coated for absorption in the intestine instead of the stomach, decreasing the side of effects of heartburn and reflux.
According to a study published in American Family Physician, peppermint oil can relax the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, providing relief of bloating, flatulence (gas) and abdominal pain. It may not be right for everyone. Use of any natural remedy should be discussed with your doctor. Too much peppermint oil can be toxic. If you try this natural remedy, it's important to follow the recommended dosing.
Eat plain yogurt, and discuss the use of probiotics with your doctor. Obtaining the advice of a Naturopathic physician may also be beneficial.
The combination of personal awareness, prescriptive medications, stress reduction and exploring natural remedies can help relieve nausea associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
