Feeling sick (nausea) is common and usually goes away on its own.
Tips to stop you feeling sick
There are some things you can do or avoid doing to help ease nausea.
Do
-
get plenty of fresh air
-
sip a cold drink - some people find fizzy drinks work best
-
try ginger or peppermint tea
-
eat something with ginger in it - for example, ginger biscuits
-
eat small meals often
-
try to distract yourself - for example, listen to music or watch a film
Don't
-
do not eat or cook food with a strong smell
-
do not eat spicy, fried or greasy food
-
do not eat too quickly
-
do not have a large drink with a meal
-
do not lie down soon after eating
-
do not wear clothes that are tight around your waist or tummy
Make sure to drink enough fluid if you are getting sick (vomiting). You might be at higher risk of dehydration.
Non-urgent advice: Contact your GP if you:
- do not feel better in a few days
- feel sick a lot - it keeps coming back
They may prescribe anti-sickness medicine if needed.
Emergency action required: Call 112 or 999 if you feel sick suddenly and have:
- chest pain that feels tight or heavy
- pain that spreads to your arms, back, neck or jaw
- shortness of breath
This could be a heart attack.
Common causes of feeling sick
Feeling sick is a symptom of many conditions and is usually nothing serious.
Your GP can help you find the cause if your symptoms do not improve. They may recommend treatment depending on the cause.
Common causes of nausea include:
- motion sickness
- infections such as norovirus or flu
- morning sickness during pregnancy
- food poisoning
- migraine
- vertigo
Content supplied by the NHS and adapted for Ireland by the HSE
