Nausea facts for kids

Nausea is that yucky, uneasy feeling you get in your stomach, often making you feel like you need to vomit (throw up). The word nausea actually comes from a Latin word meaning "seasickness".

Most of the time, nausea isn't serious and goes away quickly. If you feel nauseous, it can help to avoid solid food for a bit. Instead, try sipping clear, non-alcoholic drinks like water.

What Causes Nausea?

Nausea is a symptom, not an illness itself. This means it's a sign that something else is going on in your body. Often, the cause isn't even in your stomach!

Here are some common reasons why someone might feel nauseous:

• Stomach Bugs: A common cause is a virus that affects your stomach, often called a "stomach flu."
• Food Poisoning: This happens when you eat food that has harmful bacteria or their toxins in it. You might start feeling sick a few hours after eating the bad food.
• Medicines: Some medicines can make you feel nauseous as a side effect.
• Motion Sickness: If you've ever felt sick in a car, boat, or plane, that's motion sickness. It happens when your brain gets mixed signals about movement.
• Pregnancy: Many pregnant people experience nausea, especially in the mornings. This is often called "morning sickness."
• Other Conditions: Sometimes, nausea can be a sign of other health issues. For example, it can happen if you have a bad headache like a migraine.

How to Feel Better

If you're feeling nauseous, here are some things that might help:

• Rest: Lie down and rest quietly.
• Drink Clear Liquids: Sip small amounts of water, clear broth, or clear sodas (like ginger ale) slowly. Avoid sugary or fizzy drinks.
• Avoid Solid Food: For a little while, it's best to avoid eating solid foods until your stomach settles.
• Breathe Deeply: Taking slow, deep breaths can sometimes help calm your stomach.
• Fresh Air: If you can, get some fresh air.

If nausea lasts a long time, is very severe, or comes with other worrying symptoms, it's always a good idea to tell a parent or trusted adult. They can help you decide if you need to see a doctor.