Feeling sick (nausea) is common and usually goes away on its own. There are some things you can try that might help.
Do
-
get plenty of fresh air
-
distract yourself – for example, listen to music or watch a film
-
take regular sips of a cold drink
-
drink ginger or peppermint tea
-
eat foods containing ginger – such as ginger biscuits
-
eat smaller, more frequent meals
Don’t
-
do not eat or cook strong-smelling food
-
do not eat hot, fried or greasy food
-
do not eat too quickly
-
do not have a large drink with meals
-
do not lie down soon after eating
-
do not wear clothes that are tight around your waist or tummy
If you’re being sick
If you're also being sick (vomiting), you could become dehydrated.
See a GP if you:
- are feeling sick and do not feel better in a few days
- often feel sick (it keeps coming back)
The GP can look for the cause and suggest treatments.
They may prescribe anti-sickness medicine if needed.
Call 111 for advice if you cannot see a GP.
Call 999 if:
You suddenly feel sick and have:
- chest pain that feels tight or heavy
- pain that spreads to your arms, back, neck or jaw
- shortness of breath
This could be a heart attack.
Lots of things can make you feel sick.
Any other symptoms you have may give you an idea of the cause. But do not self-diagnose – see a GP if you're worried.
Other symptoms | Possible cause |
---|---|
Diarrhoea or vomiting | Norovirus or food poisoning |
Headache and a high temperature | An infection, such as flu |
Heartburn or bloating after eating | Acid reflux |
Headache and sensitivity to light or sound | Migraine |
Dizziness | Labyrinthitis or vertigo |
Other reasons for feeling sick include:
- pregnancy (morning sickness)
- motion sickness
- anxiety
- alcohol
- medicines
- recent surgery
Do not worry if you're not sure what's causing you to feel sick. Try the things that may stop you feeling sick and see a GP if you do not feel better in a few days.