What Causes Nausea and Retching?

Aug 23, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
Nausea and gastroesophageal reflux may result from digestive system disorders, such as indigestion or impaired gastric motility. Pro-digestive medications—e.g., motilin and Jianwei Xiaoshi Pian (a traditional Chinese medicine for promoting digestion and strengthening the stomach)—may be taken orally. These symptoms may also arise from chronic gastritis, duodenal ulcers, or drug side effects. Under a physician’s guidance, a combination of oral antacids and gastric mucosal protective agents—such as omeprazole and colloidal bismuth pectin—may be prescribed.

  In daily life, many people experience nausea and vomiting. In fact, this condition not only affects appetite but may also cause certain harm to the body. Patients must adopt scientifically sound approaches to alleviate these symptoms as soon as possible. One of the primary underlying causes may be “cold stomach” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept referring to diminished gastric function associated with coldness). So, what causes nausea and a sensation of upward rushing stomach contents (i.e., “rebellious stomach qi”)?

  Causes of Nausea and Rebellious Stomach Qi

  Nausea and rebellious stomach qi may stem from digestive system disorders, such as indigestion or impaired gastric motility. Oral medications that promote digestion—such as motilin (a gastrointestinal hormone analog) or Jianwei Xiaoshi Pian (a traditional Chinese herbal formula for strengthening digestion)—may be helpful. This condition may also result from chronic gastritis, duodenal ulcers, or adverse drug reactions. Under a physician’s guidance, patients may take antacids in combination with gastric mucosal protectants.

  Chronic pharyngitis can likewise trigger such discomfort; management primarily focuses on eliminating precipitating factors. Patients should maintain regular mealtimes, avoid overeating or binge eating, adopt a pattern of smaller, more frequent meals, and consume ample fresh fruits and vegetables. Enhancing nutritional intake, refraining from eating before bedtime, engaging in appropriate physical exercise, and supporting healthy digestion are all beneficial measures. Additionally, women of childbearing age should consider ruling out pregnancy as a potential cause.

  Patients are advised to cultivate sound dietary habits and avoid spicy, irritating foods. We hope this information proves helpful to you.