康心伴Logo
康心伴WellAlly

🚨 Medical Emergency Warning

Some symptoms may require urgent medical evaluation. Know when to seek emergency care.

Call 911 NowAvailable 24/7
Health Information Guide

Nausea and Vomiting

Also known as: Upset StomachQueasinessEmesisStomach UpsetFeeling Sick

Nausea is an uneasiness of the stomach that often comes before vomiting. Vomiting is forcefully throwing up the stomach's contents through the mouth. While nausea and vomiting are not diseases, they can be symptoms of many conditions.

Affects
50% experience nausea at least once
Source: NIH
Medically reviewed by healthcare professionals
Last updated: January 2025

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

What It Feels Like

People experiencing nausea may feel: • Queasy or upset stomach • urge to vomit • Stomach pain or discomfort • Dizziness or lightheadedness • Sweating • Increased saliva production • Weakness

Types & Categories

Acute Nausea

Sudden onset, usually from a specific cause like food poisoning or viral gastroenteritis.

Chronic Nausea

Persistent nausea lasting weeks, often from conditions like GERD or pregnancy.

Morning Sickness

Nausea during pregnancy, typically occurring in the first trimester.

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome

Recurring episodes of severe nausea and vomiting with no apparent cause.

Common Causes

Viral Gastroenteritis

Stomach flu causing inflammation of stomach and intestines.

moderate

Food Poisoning

Illness caused by eating contaminated food.

moderate

GERD

Acid reflux causing stomach contents to flow back into esophagus.

mild

Migraine

Severe headache often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

moderate

Medication Side Effects

Many medications can cause nausea as a side effect.

mild

Risk Factors

Pregnancy
Migraine history
Medication use
Weakened immune system
Recent food consumption from questionable sources

Warning Signs & Emergency Symptoms

Warning Signs

  • ⚠️Blood in vomit
  • ⚠️Severe abdominal pain
  • ⚠️Head injury with vomiting
  • ⚠️Dehydration signs
  • ⚠️Confusion or fainting

🚨 Call 911 For:

  • !Vomiting blood (red or coffee-ground appearance)
  • !Severe abdominal pain
  • !Confusion or decreased alertness
  • !Signs of dehydration

Immediate Actions While Waiting for Help

1Rest and avoid solid foods
2Sip clear fluids slowly
3Avoid strong odors
4Seek emergency care for blood in vomit

Self-Care & Home Management

Drink clear fluids
Eat bland foods (BRAT diet)
Avoid strong odors
Rest in upright position

How Doctors Diagnose This Symptom

1Physical examination
2Blood tests
3Stool tests
4Upper endoscopy
5CT scan or MRI if needed

Treatment Options

💊Anti-emetics (ondansetron, promethazine)
💊Fluid replacement
💊Dietary changes
💊Treat underlying cause

When to See a Doctor

  • Blood in vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Symptoms lasting more than a week
  • Signs of dehydration
  • Head injury before vomiting

Prevention & Lifestyle Changes

Prevention Tips

  • Practice food safety
  • Wash hands frequently
  • Avoid foods that trigger nausea
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals

Lifestyle Changes

  • Identify and avoid trigger foods
  • Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
  • Avoid lying down after meals
  • Manage stress

Related Medical Conditions

Related Symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

What helps settle an upset stomach?

Try clear fluids, bland foods like crackers or toast, ginger products, peppermint tea, and rest in an upright position. Avoid strong odors and rich or spicy foods.

When is vomiting an emergency?

Seek emergency care if vomiting blood, have severe abdominal pain, head injury, confusion, signs of dehydration, or if vomiting lasts more than 24 hours in adults.

Related Searches

"what causes nausea""how to stop nausea""why do I feel nauseous""home remedies for nausea"

Track Your Health Journey

Monitor your symptoms, track medications, and keep all your health records in one secure place. Join thousands taking control of their health.

Trust & Medical Review

This content is medically reviewed for accuracy and reliability

Medically Reviewed

This content has been reviewed by medical professionals to ensure it meets the latest medical standards and clinical practice guidelines.

Medically Verified

Expert Team

Our content is created by a team of licensed physicians, nurses, and medical writers to ensure accuracy, clarity, and practical utility.

Evidence-Based

All health information is based on peer-reviewed research, clinical guidelines, and recommendations from authoritative health organizations like CDC, WHO, and Mayo Clinic.

Regularly Updated

January 2025

We regularly review and update our content to reflect the latest medical research and clinical practices.

HIPAA Compliant
Privacy Protected
Quality Assured

References & Sources

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • Mayo Clinic
  • World Health Organization (WHO)

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call emergency services immediately.

Medical Review Team

Dr. Michael Rodriguez, MD

Internal Medicine Physician

Internal Medicine

Mayo Clinic
MDBoard Certified in Internal Medicine

Dr. Rodriguez is a board-certified internist with expertise in primary care and preventive medicine.

Last Reviewed: January 2025
Content follows AHA/ACC Clinical Guidelines

Remember: In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.