Why Does Anxiety Cause Nausea? The Answer May Surprise You

Experiencing anxiety is a common aspect of life, and is made up of feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease. However, for many, excess anxiety goes beyond experiencing emotional disturbances and begins to manifest in physical symptoms.

Enter nausea, a common yet still puzzling side effect. Let’s discuss the complex relationship between anxiety and nausea and shine a light on the reasons behind this physical manifestation of a psychological state.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural emotional response characterized by feelings of tension, worried and racing thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure, palpitations, excessive sweating. This is largely caused by increased release of adrenaline and noradrenaline (fight or flight response) during periods of experiencing stress.

Anxiety arises as a sudden reaction to stress. If excessive anxiety becomes a long-lasting issue, it can significantly affect the daily functioning of a person.

While it serves as a biological alarm system that alerts us to danger, excessive or prolonged anxiety can lead to various disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. Excess anxiety and stress also may cause other psychiatric disorders such as depression and other mood disorders.

Why does anxiety cause nausea?

At its core, the connection between anxiety and nausea can be attributed to the body's natural "fight or flight" response. When experiencing anxiety, the body prepares to confront or flee from perceived threats, triggering various physiological changes and releasing adrenaline and noradrenaline. Among these changes is the redirection of blood away from the stomach and toward muscles, which can disrupt normal digestion and lead to feelings of nausea. Additionally, anxiety can heighten a person’s awareness of bodily sensations, making discomfort, such as feelings of nausea, more pronounced.

Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter in regulating mood and anxiety that likely plays a role as well in anxiety causing nausea. Serotonin is important in regulating anxiety in the brain and surprisingly the majority of serotonin is found in the gastrointestinal tract. A dysregulation of serotonin due to excess anxiety may play a role in nausea due to its prominence the gut.

Additionally, anxiety can affect the balance of gut bacteria and increase stomach acid, both of which can contribute to nausea.

How can I treat nausea?

Some common treatments for nausea include over-the-counter medicines like Pepto-Bismol or Dramamine, which can soothe the stomach and prevent vomiting. Staying hydrated is crucial; however, taking small sips of water or sports drinks can help maintain fluid balance without overwhelming the stomach. Ginger has been widely used for its anti-nausea properties. You can try ginger tea, ginger chews or even ginger ale. Additionally, simple dietary adjustments, including eating bland, easily digestible foods like toast, crackers or rice can significantly relieve discomfort. It's important to note that if nausea persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms like chest pain or fever, consulting a healthcare provider is important to address any underlying conditions.

If over-the-counter medicines are not working for to improve nausea, a medical provider may prescribe you a medication for relief.

How can I relieve anxiety?

Relieving anxiety involves a combination of mindful practices and lifestyle changes. Common ways to relieve anxiety include:

• Regular physical activity, such as walking or yoga
• Aerobic exercise such as running has been shown in studies to also be helpful for treating anxiety
• Practicing mindfulness through meditation or deep-breathing exercises
• Establishing a consistent sleep schedule
• Engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy
• Eating a balanced diet that limits excess carbohydrates (sugar, bread, pasta)
• Avoiding excessive caffeine
• Seeking support from friends and family members
• Seeking evaluation and treatment by a medical professional

Remember, managing anxiety is an individual and personal process. What works for one may not work for another. Experimenting with different techniques to find what best suits individual needs is key to effectively relieving anxiety.

Recognizing and addressing the link between anxiety and nausea is important for people seeking relief from these symptoms. Strategies such as stress management techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication can be effective in managing anxiety, which can then help to decrease bouts of nausea. Understanding that nausea can be a physical symptom of anxiety is an important step toward understanding and supporting your overall wellness.