People sometimes feel nauseous and it is usually not a cause for real concern. When you feel nauseous and you vomit, your body gets rid of harmful substances, or it may mean that the gut was irritated by something. Gastroenteritis is one of the most common causes and diagnosis of nausea. This refers to a viral or bacterial infection that takes a few days to clear up. However, it is possible that something more serious is going on. Hence, if you feel like you need a physician, you should always listen to your instincts.
When To Seek Medical Advice
There are some situations in which you should seek medical advice. A physician will then be able to determine the causes and diagnosis of nausea. If you have been vomiting often for more than two days, if you cannot keep any fluids down, if your vomit is green, if you feel like you're dehydrated, if you suddenly lose a lot of weight, or if the vomiting becomes increasingly frequent, you should visit your physician. Additionally, if you are diabetic and take insulin, you must seek help as well.
In some situations, you should actually take yourself to the emergency room, or even telephone 911. If you are vomiting and experience severe chest pain, or severe, sudden pain in your stomach, something serious may be going on. If you suddenly start to develop a fever and have a stiff neck, if your vomit is speckled with what looks like coffee granules (it's actually blood), or if you suddenly experience a truly debilitating headache, you must go to the hospital immediately.
Causes And Diagnosis Of Nausea
As stated, the most common cause is gastroenteritis. Usually, this means that you will experience both vomiting and diarrhea. It is usually caused by a virus such as Noro, or it can be caused by a bacteria, for instance, in food poisoning. While uncomfortable, your immune system should be able to handle the infection. Make sure you stay hydrated, however.
Another common cause of nausea is pregnancy. During the first trimester, many women experience 'morning sickness'. Some women experience this very severely, often past the first trimester. Again, make sure that you remain hydrated during this time period.
Migraines can also cause nausea. Besides feeling nauseous, you will also experience a throbbing, intense headache. Usually, this will last for a few days in a row. Have it checked out, however, particularly if you have never suffered from a migraine before. You should find that painkillers can take the edge off your migraine, which is a clear sign that it is not something more sinister.
Another possible cause is labyrinthitis. This is an unbalance in the labyrinth, which is in the ear. Labyrinthitis is also known as vertigo. With medication, this may improve.
Motion sickness can also cause nausea. This usually happens when traveling by boat, although some people, particularly children, also get car sick. Usually, this is due to an inner ear problem that leaves people unbalanced.
Next, there is appendicitis, which is a medical emergency. It usually comes with severe stomach pain. If you suspect appendicitis, you should phone 911 straight away. If it is confirmed, your appendix will have to be surgically removed.
Various other things can cause nausea. These include certain medications, being intoxicated, having a kidney infection, or an obstruction in the bowel. You know your body better than anyone else, so listen to it.