Do you hate the queasiness you feel before an exam or after a hangover? Well, vomiting is the worst! While it is a natural response to nausea, it is never pleasant. Scientifically known as emesis, it is the forcible involuntary (mostly) emptying of stomach content through the mouth, sometimes the nose. Nausea can be indicative of a serious problem, in case it doesn’t stop! Scroll down to how you can prevent vomiting to avoid complications.

Health Shots got in touch with Dr Sanjay Gupta, senior consultant of Internal Medicine at Paras Hospitals, Gurgaon, Haryana, to understand why vomiting happens and what you can do.

Common causes of vomiting

Dr Gupta explains, “Vomiting is not a disease; rather, it is a symptom of a wide range of illnesses, including appendicitis, migraines, food poisoning, motion sickness, overeating, clogged intestines, concussions, and other brain injuries.”

While in some cases, it could mean nothing but a symptom of nausea, in some cases, it could be a sign of something more serious. It could be a sign of a more severe condition, including heart attacks, kidney or liver problems, central nervous system problems, brain tumours, and some types of cancer.

Signs of vomiting

Some of the common symptoms of vomiting include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Vertigo
• Excessive sweating
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Sleepiness
• Dry mouth
• Low frequency of urination
• Fever
• Rapid pulse
• Stomachache

How to prevent vomiting and nausea?

Dr Gupta suggests the following ways that can help you prevent vomiting and nausea:

1. Don’t exhaust yourself

Working out can make you feel nauseated, and if you already feel like puking, excessive activity will make it worse. The expert says that activity and lack of sleep may make nausea worse. So, take it easy to avoid vomiting.

2. Stay hydrated

Drinking water is one of the best ways to avoid vomiting. Dr Gupta says, “Maintain hydration by sipping on water or other cold, clear, carbonated, or tart beverages like ginger ale or lemonade. Mint tea may also be helpful. Dehydration can be avoided with the help of oral rehydration products like Pedialyte.”

3. Steer clear of strong fragrances

As much as you like smelling like a rose, it is not going to feel so good if it makes you feel nauseated. Keep away from triggers like strong fragrances and other aromas. Even the aromas or strong odours of food can make you barf. Strong odours, such as those that come from food and perfume. Also, avoid smoke, stuffy rooms, heat, humidity, and driving that can make you feel worse.

4. Consume bland meals

Craving for something from a restaurant? Don’t eat it! Dr Gupta says that eating outside food can lead to vomiting if you are already experiencing symptoms. “Start with simple-to-digest items like bread, crackers, and gelatin. Try cereal, rice, fruit, and salty or high-protein, high-carbohydrate foods once you can tolerate these,” recommends the expert.

5. Follow a healthy diet

Altering your diet will often assist in preventing vomiting. Generally speaking, you may wish to refrain from eating solid meals for up to 24 hours and instead eat food that can be easily digested, advises the expert.

6. Medications can help

Taking over-the-counter motion sickness medications might help. If you’re going on a trip, over-the-counter medications for motion sickness, like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine (Bonine), may help settle your queasy stomach. Ask your doctor for a prescription motion sickness adhesive patch, such as scopolamine, for longer trips, such as a cruise (Transderm Scop).