Nausea is an unpleasant, queasy feeling in your stomach that may come with an urge to vomit.

There are many possible causes of nausea, and the condition can be short-lived or chronic. Treatment depends on the cause.

1. Motion sickness

Motion sickness, or seasickness, is a type of nausea that occurs when you are moving in a car, boat, or plane. It is caused by the repeated movement of your body in different directions.

2. Pregnancy

Nausea, sometimes referred to as “morning sickness,” is a very typical symptom of pregnancy, especially during the first three months. This is typically caused by the surge of hormones released in the body of the expecting mother. These higher levels of hormones can create a variety of physical and emotional changes during pregnancy.

3. Anxiety

Anxiety can produce a sensation of queasiness, particularly if you are apprehensive about a particular issue. This feeling of unease can be accompanied by physical symptoms, such as sweating, accelerated heart rate, and difficulty breathing, which can worsen the feeling of nausea. If the anxious feelings persist, they can eventually lead to more serious physical and emotional health problems.

4. Indigestion

Indigestion is a broad term used to refer to any kind of discomfort or pain felt in the upper abdomen. It can be a result of eating too much food, eating food that is too spicy or greasy, or consuming alcoholic beverages. In addition, indigestion can be caused by eating too quickly, stress, or eating foods that are difficult to digest. Symptoms of indigestion can range from mild stomach discomfort to severe abdominal pain and discomfort.

5. Infections

Certain diseases, such as the stomach flu, can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. These infections can also cause fever, headaches, and a general feeling of malaise.

6. Medications

Certain types of medications, including antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can lead to feelings of nausea. These medications can cause an upset stomach, a feeling of queasiness, and even vomiting. Furthermore, these medications can also cause a loss of appetite, fatigue, or dizziness.

7. Migraines

Migraines are a type of headache that can cause extreme pain and throbbing in the head, along with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and blurred vision. These headaches can last for hours or even days and can be debilitating for those who suffer from them.

8. Food poisoning

Food poisoning occurs when you ingest food that is contaminated with bacteria or toxins. This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as other symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and fatigue. Eating food that is not properly cooked or stored can increase the risk of food poisoning, as can consuming food that is past its expiration date or not stored in a sanitary environment.

9. Cancer

Cancer can lead to a sensation of nausea, often when the cancer is located in the stomach or intestines. This feeling may be accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, and a loss of appetite. Nausea can be more intense and persistent when cancer has spread to other organs.

10. Vertigo

Vertigo is a type of dizziness that can cause nausea. It is usually caused by a problem with the inner ear.

Sometimes causes of nausea are minor. So, if you live in Ogden, Lynnwood, or Riverbend in Calgary, and you feel nauseous, call us at 587-391-9878, or visit us at Ogden Pharmacy to have a quick discussion or to refer you to a doctor for further investigation.

11. Dehydration

Not drinking enough fluids can lead to dehydration which can be a cause of nausea, especially if you are experiencing additional symptoms such as vomiting. When your body does not have enough fluids, it can affect your ability to properly digest food, leading to an upset stomach and a feeling of sickness.

12. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is a medical condition that is caused by the inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is a small organ located at the lower right side of the abdomen. When the appendix becomes inflamed, it can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.

The most common symptoms associated with appendicitis are nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The abdominal pain is usually experienced in the lower right side of the abdomen and may increase in intensity if the condition is left untreated.

Additionally, other symptoms of appendicitis may include loss of appetite, fever, chills, and constipation. If left untreated, appendicitis can be a serious and life-threatening condition. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if any of the above symptoms are experienced.

13. Stomach ulcer

A stomach ulcer is a sore or lesion that forms in the lining of the stomach. It is usually caused by an infection or erosion of the stomach lining by stomach acid, and can result in a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Stomach ulcers can be serious and require medical attention, so if you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact a doctor.

14. Gastritis

Gastritis is an irritation and swelling of the stomach lining which can result in unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. It is commonly caused by an infection or an irritant, such as certain medications or alcohol, and can sometimes be chronic in nature. Treatment typically involves avoiding triggers, taking medications to reduce stomach acid production, and in some cases, surgery.

15. Gallstones

Gallstones are solidified pieces of material which typically consist of cholesterol, bile salts, and calcium deposits that form in the gallbladder. These deposits can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In some cases, the pain can become so severe that it requires medical attention.

16. Kidney stones

Kidney stones are solidified mineral deposits that can build up in the kidneys. These stones can cause extreme discomfort, with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. In addition, they can lead to difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and a persistent urge to urinate. Treatment may include medications and shock wave therapy to break up the stones. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the stones.

17. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a medical condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and pain in the abdomen. Other symptoms may include fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, and jaundice.

Severe cases of pancreatitis can lead to bleeding, organ failure, and even death. Treatment for pancreatitis typically involves dietary changes, pain medications, and antibiotics. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

18. Hiatal hernia

A hiatal hernia is a condition where a portion of the stomach protrudes through the opening of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a sheet of muscle that separates the abdominal cavity from the chest. When the hernia occurs, a part of the stomach can move above the diaphragm and into the chest. This can cause a range of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and difficulty swallowing.

Additionally, the hernia can put pressure on the esophagus, leading to heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, the hernia can cause problems with the digestive system, leading to poor digestion and constipation.

Treatment for a hiatal hernia usually involves lifestyle changes, such as avoiding large meals and eating smaller, more frequent meals. Medications to reduce stomach acid and surgery may also be necessary.

19. Celiac disease

Celiac disease is a digestive disorder in which the body experiences an adverse reaction to consuming gluten. Symptoms of this condition can include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Additionally, those with the disorder may experience malnutrition, weight loss, and fatigue due to the difficulty in absorbing nutrients from food.

20. Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a medical condition that is characterized by chronic inflammation in the digestive system.

Common symptoms of this condition include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, and fatigue. Other symptoms that may be present, depending on the type of IBD, include rectal bleeding, bloody stools, fever, and joint pain. IBD is usually caused by an autoimmune response, where the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks the cells of the digestive system.

Treatment for IBD usually involves medications, lifestyle changes, and dietary modifications, though in some cases, surgery may be necessary to help manage the symptoms and prevent further damage to the digestive system.

21. Food allergies

People with food allergies may experience a range of unpleasant physical symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and can be triggered by eating even small amounts of the food to which they are allergic. In some cases, food allergies can even lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

22. Lactose intolerance

Lactose intolerance is an inability to digest the sugar, lactose, found in dairy products. It is a gastrointestinal disorder that can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, gas, and diarrhea. These symptoms typically occur after consuming dairy products, but some people may experience them even when they simply smell or see them.

23. Viral gastroenteritis

Viral gastroenteritis is an illness that affects the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of this condition can include nausea, vomiting, and stomach ache. Dehydration is a common side effect of the disorder, as it can cause a person to lose fluids and electrolytes through frequent bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. Other possible symptoms may include low-grade fever, headache, and a general feeling of fatigue.

24. Reactions to food

Consuming certain types of food – such as those that are high in fat or contain a lot of spice – can lead to feelings of nausea. This is because these foods often cause indigestion and discomfort in the stomach, which can result in nausea.

25. Psychological conditions

Psychological conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can cause nausea.

Our pharmacists at Ogden Pharmacy in Calgary can recommend some over-the-counter medicines for some of the above conditions. The pharmacist may refer you to your family doctor for other conditions.