Overview

Feeling sick (nausea) is common and usually goes away on its own. There are some things you can try that might help.

Title
Vomiting in adults

Symptoms
  • Diarrhoea or vomiting
  • Headache and a high temperature
  • Heartburn or bloating after eating
  • Headache and sensitivity to light or sound
  • Dizziness

  • Other reasons for feeling sick include:

  • pregnancy (morning sickness)
  • motion sickness
  • anxiety
  • alcohol
  • medicines
  • recent surgery
Causes

Lots of things can make you feel sick.

Any other symptoms you have may give you an idea of the cause. But don't self-diagnose – see a GP if you're worried.

 

Self-help

Things that may help you stop feeling sick

Do

  • get plenty of fresh air
  • distract yourself – for example, listen to music or watch a film
  • take sips of a cold drink – some people find fizzy drinks best
  • drink ginger or peppermint tea
  • eat foods containing ginger – such as ginger biscuits
  • eat smaller, more frequent meals

Don't

  • eat or cook strong-smelling food
  • eat hot, fried or greasy food
  • eat too quickly
  • have a large drink with meals
  • lie down soon after eating
  • wear clothes that are tight around your waist or tummy