Nausea & Vomitting

Feeling nauseous or sick in the stomach is a warning that vomiting may be imminent. In many cases, the queasy feeling occurs alone, and vomiting does not eventuate; it is relatively rare for vomiting to occur without an accompanying feeling of nausea.

Symptoms

• A sense that vomiting may be imminent
• Queasiness may be felt in the stomach or throat
• Vomiting may or may not occur
• Headache, fever, chills, muscle aches, Fatigue or Diarrhoea may also occur, especially if food poisoning or an infection is the cause

Causes

• Vomiting is one of the mechanisms that the body uses to quickly expel toxic or unwanted substances, and consequently may be due to many factors, including Gastritis, consumption of spoiled food
• Other causes of nausea and vomiting include a wide range of digestive health problems, from appendicitis to intestinal disease
• Nausea and vomiting are sometimes symptoms of  infections or other health problems that are not necessarily related to the gastrointestinal tract
• Nausea and vomiting sometimes occur as an adverse effect of prescribed medical treatment, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy

Nutritional & Herbal Support

• Taking a broad-spectrum digestive enzyme supplement works with the body's own gastric secretions to enhance your digestion of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and cellulose, and consequently may reduce symptoms of Flatulence and Bloating. Look for a formula that also contains herbs such as ginger and peppermint, which are traditionally taken for symptoms of gastrointestinal cramping (colic) as well as other digestive symptoms such as Indigestion

Diet & Lifestyle advice

• Severe, recurrent or persistent nausea or vomiting may be indicative of underlying disease, and require medical investigation
• Acute episodes of vomiting may have serious consequences for babies, children, the elderly, or those with serious health problems. Seek medical advice immediately.
• When vomiting is present, drink plenty of fluids to guard against dehydration. An electrolyte-replacement formula is highly recommended for children
• Avoid caffeine, carbonated beverages and acidic juices
• To relieve nausea, drink ginger tea, made by chopping or grating a knob of fresh ginger root, and pouring boiling water over it.
• Eat small meals, several times per day; bland, dry foods such as toast, crackers, rice and pasta may be better tolerated than tastier foods. When the nausea and vomiting have passed, re-introduce more substantial foods gradually, eating lightly for a few days
• Avoid spicy and fatty food
• Acute cases of vomiting may be infectious. Practicing good hygiene helps prevent the spread of infection

If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional. Information provided is of a general nature and should not replace that of your healthcare professional.