I have been experiencing random extreme nausea for over 25yrs. I’m 32. I remember being as young as 6 or 7 and having a random onset of extreme nausea & having to go to my bedroom window, open it & put my face close to the screen to breathe in fresh air. That’s always been the only thing to help it go away. I don’t know why it happens. It happens as often as couple times a week to as infrequently as every few months. But I know when it happens because it’s a different kind of nauseous feeling than when I’m sick. Any ideas on what is going on with me?
Hello guest.
Experiencing random and extreme nausea for such a long period of time can be distressing and confusing. The fact that this has been a recurring issue since childhood suggests that it might be a chronic condition or a response to a specific trigger. Here are some potential causes and considerations:
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Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions like gastritis, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), or peptic ulcers can cause nausea. These conditions may not always present with typical symptoms like heartburn or stomach pain.
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Migraines: Migraines are not just headaches; they can also cause symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light or smells. Some people experience a type of migraine known as an abdominal migraine, which primarily affects the stomach.
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Anxiety and Stress: Anxiety and stress can manifest physically, often causing symptoms like nausea. This could be more likely if you notice a correlation between stressful events or anxious feelings and the onset of nausea.
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Vestibular Disorders: Issues with the inner ear and balance can cause dizziness and nausea. These might not always be accompanied by noticeable balance problems.
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Food Intolerances or Allergies: Sometimes, food intolerances or allergies can cause nausea. This could be something to consider, especially if the nausea seems to occur after eating.
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Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal fluctuations can also cause nausea. Though more commonly discussed in the context of pregnancy or menstrual cycles, hormonal imbalances can affect anyone.
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Environmental Factors: Since you find relief from fresh air, it's possible that environmental factors like odors, indoor air quality, or even certain lighting conditions could be triggering your symptoms.
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Chronic Illnesses: Certain chronic illnesses, including autoimmune diseases or neurological conditions, can have nausea as a symptom.
Since these episodes have been occurring for many years and seem to be distinct from other types of nausea you've experienced, it would be wise to consult with a doctor. They may recommend a physical examination, review your medical history, and possibly order tests like blood work, imaging studies, or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
Let us know after you get the diagnosis from your doctor.