Why does chronic pain cause nausea and vomiting?
Nausea is an upset or uncomfortable feeling in the stomach that precedes vomiting. Nausea is a common symptom of a variety of conditions, including chronic pain. A pain management specialist can help you understand the connection between chronic pain and nausea and how to manage it.
Learn more: The Importance of a Pain Management Specialist.
We’ll explain why chronic pain can cause nausea, other symptoms you may experience, and possible treatment options.
There is a strong link between chronic pain and nausea. Chronic pain affects the central nervous system, controlling how our bodies process sensations such as hunger, taste, smell, and nausea. Read on to learn why this happens.
What is chronic nausea and how does it happen?
Chronic nausea occurs when an individual experiences recurring episodes that last for weeks, months, or even years. Various medical conditions and environmental factors, including gastrointestinal problems, chronic pain, or certain medications, can cause this condition.
Common causes of chronic nausea include:
a) Gastrointestinal problems:
Many gastrointestinal conditions can cause nausea, such as gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and food poisoning.
b) Chronic pain:
It’s common for people with chronic pain to feel sick as a result of their condition. This happens when the body is stressed and releases cortisol, a hormone that can cause nausea.
c) Peptic ulcer:
Peptic ulcers occur when the lining of the stomach or small intestine becomes inflamed. This may cause symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
d) Inflammatory bowel disease:
Inflammatory bowel disease is a condition in which the lining of the intestines becomes inflamed, causing abdominal pain and nausea. This happens because inflammation interferes with the normal function of the digestive system.
e) Drugs:
Some medications, such as antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, may cause nausea as a side effect. Additionally, some over-the-counter medications can cause nausea when taken in large doses.
f) Stress and anxiety:
Stress and anxiety can cause nausea as the body releases hormones and chemicals.
g) Hormonal changes:
Rapid hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy or menopause, may cause nausea. Some forms of birth control may also cause this symptom.
Symptoms of chronic nausea may include:
a) Nausea
b) Vomiting
c) Abdominal pain and discomfort
d) Loss of appetite
e) Fatigue
f) sweat
g) Dizziness.
How can you control and reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chronic pain?
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of chronic pain. Managing them can be challenging, but there are certain things you can do to help reduce them.
1) Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day –
Eating small, frequent meals can help reduce nausea and vomiting. Try to balance carbs, protein and fat at each meal.
2) Avoid triggers –
Different foods and smells can trigger nausea in people with chronic pain. Keeping a food diary can identify which foods cause nausea and vomiting.
3) Stay hydrated——
Drinking plenty of fluids can help reduce nausea and vomiting. If you are actively exercising, aim to drink 8-10 glasses of water or more per day.
Call Illinois Pain and Spine Institute to learn about the best pain centers in Chicago. We offer a personalized, evidence-based approach to treating chronic nausea and vomiting caused by chronic pain.
