Prevention of Nausea

Not all nausea can be prevented, but many common causes can be avoided.

Food and drink

• Wash hands before eating and after the toilet
• Eat freshly cooked food and avoid food that has been left out for hours
• Use safe, clean water
• Keep raw and cooked food apart, and cook meat and eggs well
• Avoid overeating and very heavy, oily or spicy meals
• Limit alcohol

Everyday habits

• Eat regular meals and do not skip breakfast
• Do not lie down right after eating
• Sleep well and manage stress
• Stop smoking
• Stay hydrated in hot weather

Travel

Choose a seat with less motion, look at the horizon, avoid heavy meals and ask your doctor about medicine before travel if you get motion sickness.

Medicines

Take tablets that upset the stomach with food if the label allows. If a medicine causes nausea, ask the doctor about another option rather than stopping it.

Chemotherapy and surgery

Your care team can give medicine before treatment to prevent nausea. Tell them if you have had nausea after anaesthesia before.

Pregnancy

Small, frequent meals, rest and fluids can lessen morning sickness. Speak to your doctor if it is severe.

Know your triggers

Keep a short diary of foods, smells and situations that bring on nausea.

Ayurvedic view

Light food, regular meals and clean surroundings are traditional advice. They match common-sense measures.

Key point

Food hygiene, regular meals and rest prevent many cases of nausea.

Remember

Most nausea passes with rest and fluids. See a doctor if it lasts more than 2 days, keeps returning or comes with warning signs.