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Taming the Tummy Troubles: Treatments for Nausea and Vomiting
Published: Apr 28, 2024
Feeling sick to your stomach? You're not alone. Nausea and vomiting are common, but that doesn't mean you have to suffer. Let's explore the treatments that can help you feel better.
First Line of Defense: Lifestyle Changes
Sometimes, simple changes can make a big difference. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help. Stick to bland, easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet). Stay hydrated with clear fluids, sipping slowly. Avoiding strong smells, fatty foods, and alcohol can also help. For some, ginger tea or peppermint can soothe an upset stomach.
Medication to the Rescue
When lifestyle changes aren't enough, medications can help. Over-the-counter options like Dramamine for motion sickness or Pepto-Bismol for upset stomach are widely available. For more severe or persistent symptoms, your doctor might prescribe stronger anti-nausea medications. These can include drugs like ondansetron, which blocks the body's vomiting reflex, or metoclopramide, which helps your stomach empty faster.
Beyond Pills: Alternative Approaches
Some people find relief through alternative therapies. Acupressure wristbands, which stimulate a point on the inner wrist, can help with nausea, especially from motion sickness or pregnancy. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation can also be effective, particularly for stress-related nausea. While not scientifically proven, some find aromatherapy with scents like lemon or peppermint helpful.
When More is Needed: Advanced Treatments
For severe, chronic cases that don't respond to other treatments, there are more advanced options. These might include IV fluids for dehydration, feeding tubes to bypass the stomach, or even electrical stimulation of the stomach muscles. These are typically reserved for cases of severe gastroparesis or other serious digestive disorders. Always work with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are safe treatments for pregnancy nausea.
Many start working within 30-60 minutes.
Ginger, peppermint, and acupressure can help some people.
Yes, anxiety can trigger nausea in some people.
Light exercise may help, but avoid intense workouts when nauseous.
Finding Your Solution
With various treatment options available, you don't have to let nausea and vomiting control your life.
References
- Athavale A, Athavale T, Roberts DM. Antiemetic drugs: what to prescribe and when. Aust Prescr 2020; 43:49.
- Furyk JS, Meek RA, Egerton-Warburton D. Drugs for the treatment of nausea and vomiting in adults in the emergency department setting. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015; :CD010106.
- Wo JM, Nowak TV, Waseem S, Ward MP. Gastric Electrical Stimulation for Gastroparesis and Chronic Unexplained Nausea and Vomiting. Curr Treat Options Gastroenterol 2016; 14:386.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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