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Contents
  • Digestive System Issues
  • Systemic Conditions
  • Psychological Factors

The Many Causes of Nausea: From Common to Complex

The Many Causes of Nausea: From Common to Complex

Unraveling the Mystery

Nausea can be triggered by a wide range of factors, from a simple stomach bug to serious medical conditions. Understanding the potential causes is crucial for proper treatment.
Contents
  • Digestive System Issues
  • Systemic Conditions
  • Psychological Factors

Digestive System Issues

Many causes of nausea originate in the digestive system. Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is a common culprit, causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Other digestive triggers include food poisoning, acid reflux, ulcers, gallbladder disease, and pancreatitis. Chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or celiac disease can also cause nausea.

Systemic Conditions

Sometimes nausea is a symptom of a condition affecting the whole body. Infections, especially viral illnesses, often cause nausea. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation can trigger nausea. Certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs, can have nausea as a side effect. Migraines, inner ear disorders, and brain injuries can also lead to nausea.
Nausea is a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of factors, including digestive system issues, systemic conditions, and hormonal changes.

Psychological Factors

The mind-gut connection is powerful. Anxiety, stress, and depression can all manifest as nausea. Eating disorders like bulimia nervosa involve self-induced vomiting. Some people experience anticipatory nausea before stressful events. Chronic unexplained nausea may be related to functional gastrointestinal disorders.

FAQs

Can dehydration cause nausea?

Yes, it's a common symptom of dehydration.

Is nausea always related to the stomach?

No, it can be triggered by other organs or the brain.

Can allergies cause nausea?

Yes, especially if postnasal drip irritates the stomach.

Complex Symptom

Nausea can be a challenging symptom to diagnose due to its many potential causes, but understanding the triggers is key to finding relief.
Struggling to identify what's causing your nausea? Let Doctronic help you narrow down the possibilities.
Additional References
  1. Metz A, Hebbard G. Nausea and vomiting in adults--a diagnostic approach. Aust Fam Physician 2007; 36:688.
  2. Koch KL. Gastric dysrhythmias: a potential objective measure of nausea. Exp Brain Res 2014; 232:2553.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.