Nausea

What is nausea?

Nausea is that uncomfortable feeling in your stomach that makes you feel like throwing up. It can happen for many reasons, from eating bad food to being pregnant. In Africa, many people experience nausea due to infections, poor diet, motion sickness, and even traditional herbal medications that are too strong for the stomach.

How common is nausea in Africa?

Many Africans experience nausea frequently, but it is often ignored unless it leads to vomiting. Here are some common causes in our communities:

• Food poisoning from contaminated street food or expired products.
• Malaria and typhoid: Two common diseases in Africa that can cause nausea.
• Pregnancy-related nausea: About 70% of pregnant women experience “morning sickness.”
• Motion sickness: Many people feel nauseous during long bus rides or boat trips.
• Strong-smelling foods: Some traditional African dishes with strong spices can trigger nausea in sensitive individuals.

What causes nausea?

Nausea can come from different sources. Here are some of the most common causes:

Infections and viruses  

• Malaria and typhoid, both common in Africa, often cause nausea as an early symptom.
• Stomach infections from contaminated food or water can cause nausea.
• Food poisoning from spoiled or poorly cooked food can lead to nausea and vomiting.

Digestive problems

• Acid reflux (heartburn): When stomach acid moves up the throat, it causes a burning sensation and nausea.
• Ulcers: Sores in the stomach lining that cause pain and nausea after eating.
• Gallstones and kidney stones: Painful conditions that often lead to nausea.

Pregnancy

• Many pregnant women experience “morning sickness,” which can last all day.
• Some foods and smells become intolerable, making them feel nauseous.

Medications and herbal remedies

• Some strong medications, such as malaria drugs, can upset the stomach.
• Traditional herbal mixtures, when taken in high doses, can cause nausea.

Motion sickness and strong smells

• Long-distance bus or boat rides can cause nausea in some people.
• Strong smells from smoke, perfumes, or certain foods can trigger nausea.

When should you see a doctor?

While nausea is common, some situations require urgent medical attention:

• If nausea comes with severe chest pain, which could be a sign of a heart attack.
• If you have a high fever and vomiting, which may indicate malaria or typhoid.
• If nausea lasts more than 48 hours without improvement.
• If you are unable to keep fluids down and show signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, no urination).

How can you treat nausea?

The treatment for nausea depends on the cause. Here are some effective remedies:

• Rest and hydration: Drink small sips of water or ginger tea.
• Herbal solutions: Ginger, peppermint, and cloves can help settle the stomach.
• Over-the-counter medicine: Paracetamol for pain, antacids for heartburn, or malaria drugs if diagnosed.
• Eat light foods: Stick to dry foods like toast, crackers, or rice.
• Cold compress: Placing a cool cloth on your forehead can reduce nausea.

How can you prevent nausea?

Avoiding nausea triggers can help prevent discomfort. Here’s what you can do:

Use medication like scopolamine patches if you know you get motion sickness.

Eat small meals instead of heavy meals to avoid stomach overload.

Drink clean water to avoid infections.

Avoid strong smells like smoke and perfume if they make you nauseous.

Take breaks during travel to avoid motion sickness.