Nausea
Nausea is a symptom, not a diagnosis — and the cause matters.
Nausea is the unpleasant urge to vomit. It's triggered by dozens of things: infection, pregnancy, migraine, medication side effects, vertigo, anxiety, and more serious conditions like gallbladder or pancreas issues. Occasional, short-lived nausea is rarely dangerous; persistent or severe nausea needs a doctor.
When to worry
Seek urgent medical care for any of the following:
- Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Severe abdominal pain or rigidity
- Nausea with chest pain or sweating (possible cardiac)
- Signs of dehydration — no urine for 8 hours, dizziness on standing
- Confusion, severe headache, or stiff neck
- Nausea lasting more than 48 hours
Safe self-care
Reasonable first steps while you wait for or decide on a consultation:
- Sip clear fluids slowly — large volumes make it worse
- Bland foods: toast, rice, bananas, plain yoghurt
- Ginger tea or candied ginger often helps mild nausea
- Avoid strong smells, fatty foods, and alcohol
- Rest upright for 30 minutes after eating
Which specialist treats nausea?
Nausea — FAQ
Is nausea without vomiting a bad sign?
Not necessarily. Many common causes — early pregnancy, motion sickness, medication side effects — cause nausea without actual vomiting.
Can I take anti-nausea medication without prescription?
Some options are over-the-counter, but self-treating nausea for more than a day or two risks masking a serious cause. Speak to a doctor first.
Other symptoms
This page is general information, not medical advice for any specific person. If in doubt, book a consultation or seek emergency care.