Nausea, the sensation of feeling like vomiting, can be categorized into acute and chronic based on its duration. If lasting less than seven days, it’s acute; if persisting beyond seven days, it’s chronic. The brain typically sends signals triggering nausea, often resulting in vomiting. Symptoms include a queasy sensation, feeling sick to the stomach, and may include:
- Sweating
- Stomach pain
- Dizziness or giddiness
- Lethargy or weakness
- Confusion, reduced alertness
- Pallor or pale skin
- Cool, clammy skin
Nausea can stem from various diseases or disorders, accompanied by additional symptoms such as:
- Gastrointestinal complaints like bloating, early satiety, indigestion, heartburn, or difficulty swallowing.
- Light-headedness, chest or abdominal pain, CNS symptoms, cough, or blood in vomit, which require prompt assessment.
- Missed menstrual period (suggesting pregnancy).
- Vertigo, joint pain, low-grade fevers, motion-induced nausea and vomiting, for which doctors may provide empirical treatment.
Serious side effects of nausea and vomiting include dehydration, weight loss, and malnutrition. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond a few days or if pregnancy is suspected. Seek medical attention if self-treatment fails, dehydration occurs, or nausea follows an injury or infection.