What are the causes of constant nausea? What are the common treatments for persistent nausea? Get the answers to these questions and more in this comprehensive article.

Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which stomach contents flow back (reflux) into the esophagus, causing a variety of symptoms, including constant nausea. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that acts as a valve between the stomach and esophagus, becomes weakened or relaxes inappropriately, allowing stomach contents to flow back up.

Causes of Constant Nausea

Constant nausea can have a variety of underlying causes, including:

• Pregnancy: Nausea and vomiting, often referred to as “morning sickness,” are common during pregnancy, affecting up to 80% of pregnant women.
• Gastroparesis: A condition in which the stomach empties food more slowly than normal, leading to symptoms like feeling full quickly, abdominal pain, and nausea.
• Bowel Obstruction: A blockage in the intestines that prevents food from passing through, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Digestive Conditions: Conditions like dyspepsia, GERD, peptic ulcers, and IBS can all contribute to persistent nausea.
• Psychological Factors: Anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and depression have been linked to chronic nausea.
• Neurological Factors: Migraines, increased intracranial pressure, and neurological disorders can trigger constant nausea.
• Medications: Various medications, including hormones, antibiotics, and some cardiovascular drugs, can cause nausea as a side effect.
• Cancer: Certain types of cancer, particularly those affecting the digestive system or brain, may lead to persistent nausea.

Symptoms of Constant Nausea

In addition to the persistent feeling of nausea, individuals with constant nausea may also experience other symptoms, such as:

• Increased saliva production
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Trouble swallowing
• Changes in skin temperature
• Rapid heartbeat
• Vomiting

Diagnosing the Cause of Constant Nausea

When evaluating a person with constant nausea, a healthcare provider will typically ask detailed questions to determine the underlying cause, including:

• When the nausea began
• The duration and frequency of nausea episodes
• Whether vomiting occurs and the appearance of the vomit
• Any associated symptoms

Based on the patient’s history and physical examination, the healthcare provider may order additional tests, such as blood work, imaging studies, or endoscopy, to diagnose the underlying condition.

Treatments for Constant Nausea

The treatment for constant nausea will depend on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

• Medications: Antiemetic drugs, proton pump inhibitors, and other medications may be prescribed to help manage nausea and its underlying causes.
• Dietary Changes: Avoiding trigger foods, staying hydrated, and eating smaller, more frequent meals can help alleviate nausea in some cases.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Stress reduction techniques, such as relaxation exercises or therapy, may be beneficial for individuals with nausea related to psychological factors.
• Surgical Interventions: In some cases, such as with severe gastroparesis or GERD, surgical procedures may be necessary to address the underlying condition and provide relief from constant nausea.

Home Remedies for Constant Nausea

In addition to medical treatments, there are several home remedies that may help alleviate constant nausea, including:

• Ginger: Consuming ginger in the form of tea, capsules, or candies may help settle the stomach and reduce nausea.
• Peppermint: Peppermint oil or tea may have a calming effect on the digestive system and help ease nausea.
• Acupressure: Applying pressure to the wrist acupressure point (P6) may help relieve nausea.
• Hydration: Staying well-hydrated by sipping water or sucking on ice chips can help prevent dehydration and potentially reduce nausea.
• Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding foods, smells, or other triggers that worsen nausea can be an effective management strategy.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Individuals experiencing constant nausea should speak with their healthcare provider, as it may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that requires professional evaluation and treatment. Seeking medical attention is particularly important if the nausea is accompanied by severe vomiting, dehydration, or other concerning symptoms.