What causes nausea and vomiting, and how can they be treated?

### Causes of Nausea and Vomiting Nausea is the feeling you get in your stomach before you vomit. Vomiting is when you throw up your stomach contents through your mouth. You can have nausea and vomiting together or separately. They are not diseases, but common symptoms of many conditions, such as: - **Infections**: Stomach flu (gastroenteritis) caused by bacteria or viruses. - **Chronic Conditions**: Food allergies, peptic ulcers, GERD, IBS, Crohn's disease. - **Lifestyle Choices**: Excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, overeating. - **Eating Disorders**: Anorexia and bulimia. - **Other Conditions**: Migraines, pregnancy (morning sickness), food poisoning, norovirus, menstrual periods. ### Treatment and Remedies Nausea and vomiting usually go away on their own, but there are steps you can take to feel better: - **Medication**: Over-the-counter remedies and prescription drugs for nausea linked to morning sickness, acid reflux, or pregnancy. Always check with your doctor before using any treatments. - **Home Remedies**: Drink small sips of water or ginger ale, eat small meals, avoid strong smells, and get fresh air. - **For Children**: Ensure they stay hydrated and consult a doctor if symptoms persist. ### When to Seek Medical Help - **Adults**: If nausea or vomiting lasts longer than 2 days, or if you have severe symptoms like vomiting blood. - **Children**: If they show signs of dehydration, such as decreased peeing or a sunken soft spot on their head. ### Special Cases - **Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome**: Repeated attacks of nausea and vomiting for no known reason. - **Hyperemesis Gravidarum**: Severe morning sickness during pregnancy that can lead to dangerous fluid and mineral imbalances. - **Mallory-Weiss Tear**: A tear in the esophagus lining due to excessive vomiting. Most of the time, nausea and vomiting can be managed with home remedies or self-care, but it's important to see a doctor if symptoms are severe or persistent.