Nausea and vomiting result when the vomiting centre located in the brain stem is stimulated. This can happen in two ways: chemically (through the presence of toxins in the blood stream), and neurally (as the result of information coming from the frontal lobes of the brain, the digestive tract, and the balancing mechanism of the inner ear). Stimulation of the vomiting centre causes the diaphragm to press down on the stomach and the abdominal walls to squeeze inwards. This forces the contents of the stomach out through the esophagus.

Many conditions give rise to nausea including motion (travel sickness/ seasickness), stomach flu, food poisoning, migraines, stress, early pregnancy, and use of certain medications.

Motion Sickness
 Also known as travel sickness or seasickness, this queasy sensation is brought on by movement. While most people experience it when travelling in a car, boat or plane, others find themselves feeling nauseous on amusement park rides, even though they find these rides enjoyable.

Motion sickness occurs when your body, inner ear and eyes send confusing signals to the brain. It is best prevented by sitting or standing with the body and head straight, and the eyes focused on the horizon. Taking an anti-nauseant medication well in advance of the activity that normally causes you to become sick will help prevent nausea.

Stomach Flu
Stomach flu is marked by nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and a general feeling of malaise. If you are suffering from the stomach flu, you may not be able to hold down food or fluids and so may become dehydrated. This is particularly likely if you also have diarrhea.

Taking an anti-nauseant if you have stomach flu will help you to keep fluids down and minimize the risk of dehydration. Remember to take fluids (water, apple juice, ginger ale) in tiny sips until you are able to drink without vomiting.

Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is usually characterized by stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea—the body’s response to ingesting contaminated foods or beverages.

If you suspect you have food poisoning, you should check with your doctor. Treatment usually involves intake of fluids (water is best), and use of an anti-nauseant if you are nauseous and/or vomiting.

Migraine
Migraine headaches are often associated with nausea and/or vomiting. An anti-nauseant will help to control this. Be sure to sip fluids to prevent dehydration.

Stress
Tension and fear often give rise to dizziness and nausea. Often, the cause is hyperventilation. Learning to manage stress can help you through difficult times in the long-run but, if you are needing temporary relief, an anti-nauseant will help. If you experience fear and tension while flying, this can contribute towards travel sickness. An anti-nauseant can help you regain comfort by preventing nausea and helping you to relax.

Early Pregnancy
Many mothers-to-be feel sick during the early months of pregnancy. This is due to the increased levels of hormones in the body. Never take anti-nauseants to stop morning sickness. Nibble on a few dry crackers and contact your health care provider if nausea becomes intolerable.

Use of Medications
Certain medications, such as drugs used in chemotherapy, antibiotics and anti- inflammatories can cause nausea. Before taking an anti-nauseant, you should check with your doctor or London Drugs pharmacist, to ensure no inappropriate drug interactions may follow.

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