It’s safe to say that almost every single one of us knows the feeling of being nauseous, and we all know it’s not a pleasant feeling. When those nauseous feelings arise, it can be tough to know what to do in the moment to treat them.
Luckily, our AFC Urgent Care Farragut team has some answers to your questions about nausea, and we provide them below. Read on!
- Here’s what to do: First, when you’re feeling nauseous, avoid lying down. When you lie flat on your back, gastric juices can rise and increase feelings of nausea and overall discomfort. Instead, when you’re nauseous, try reclining with your upper body elevated and moving around as little as possible.
- What to do next: Try ginger. Eating ginger or drinking ginger tea are some of the most popular, effective ways to treat feelings of nausea. The reason is that experts believe ginger contains compounds that work in a similar way to anti-nausea medications.
- What to do after: Avoid carbonated beverages. Tales of old suggest that ginger ale and cola can relieve nausea, but, really, the opposite is true. Carbonated drinks may cause bloating and worsen acid reflux and GERD, all of which may cause nausea. In addition, most fizzy beverages are loaded with sugar, which may also make you queasier.
- Another treatment: Turn to lemons. Lemons contain citric acid, a naturally-occurring compound thought to aid digestion and soothe the stomach. Try adding freshly squeezed lemon juice to water and sip throughout the day.
- Don’t forget: OTC medications. Antiemetic medications, like Dramamine and Pepto-Bismol, are anti-nausea drugs that can help to reduce feelings of nausea or vomiting.
- Something else that works: A cool compress. When nausea occurs, your body temperature may increase, so a soothing, cool compress placed on the back of the neck may help ease nauseous feelings.
- Action steps to take: See your doctor if episodes of nausea last more than one month, or you have nausea and unexplained weight loss. Also, nausea and dehydration can sometimes go hand-in-hand, so visit the doctor if symptoms of dehydration like dizziness, dark urine or weakness accompany your nausea.
- Doctor recommendations: Stay hydrated! Drinking enough water throughout the day is one of the best ways to prevent nausea from happening.
Feeling less than your best? If so, don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC Urgent Care Farragut center today to get the care you need!
