Nausea is a sensation of queasiness or unsettled stomach that can precede vomiting. It is a common symptom that shows up in a wide range of situations, from brief moments of discomfort to longer-lasting patterns. Understanding that nausea can have different triggers helps set expectations and plan steps to take. Causes of nausea are diverse. They can relate to movement or travel, emotional stress or anxiety, infections or illness, medications, migraines, or other conditions. In some people, nausea appears as a response to environmental factors like strong odors or bright lights. Because the same symptom can stem from many sources, a careful look at when it started and what was happening around that time is often helpful. Here are practical steps you can try now to address nausea in the moment. Find a comfortable, quiet space and adopt a relaxed posture—sitting upright or lying with the head slightly elevated. Try slow, steady breathing and a period of rest, and consider a grounding activity such as focusing on ambient sounds or gentle visualization. Minimize triggers by reducing exposure to strong odors and bright or noisy environments, and give yourself time to settle. Warning signs that require medical advice include symptoms that are severe, persistent, or worsening. Seek care if nausea is accompanied by vomiting for more than a day or two, signs of dehydration (very dry mouth, reduced urination, dizziness), severe abdominal or chest pain, confusion, high fever, stiff neck, vomiting blood, or if you recently had a head injury. If nausea interferes with daily function or recurs frequently, a clinician can help determine whether an underlying issue is present and discuss appropriate evaluation.
