Stress and anxiety can cause nausea or make it worse. [2] X Expert Source Peter Gardner, MDBoard Certified Gastroenterologist Expert Interview. 25 August 2020. A soothing distraction will not only help take your focus off the nausea, but it will also relieve stress and help you relax. [3] X Research source

Turning on a fan can help disperse or draw away bad smells. If you can, get away from any irritants in your environment that could make your nausea worse, such as cigarette smoke or strong cooking smells.

Lying down can make some kinds of nausea worse. For instance, lying down too soon after eating can trigger nausea if you have acid reflux. [6] X Research source If this is the case for you, try sitting still or propping yourself up on pillows instead.

Rub your thumb or finger in small circles while you apply pressure. [10] X Expert Source Peter D’Aquino, L. Ac, MS, NCCAOMLicensed Acupuncturist Expert Interview. 14 April 2020. Push down firmly, but not hard enough to cause pain. Move to the other wrist when you’re done. The space where your kneecap meets the top of your shin is another pressure point that’s thought to relieve nausea. [11] X Research source It is known as the ST–36 point or Zu San Li. [12] X Expert Source Peter D’Aquino, L. Ac, MS, NCCAOMLicensed Acupuncturist Expert Interview. 14 April 2020. Consider seeing a professional acupressure or acupuncture therapist if you regularly struggle with nausea. They can also show you more techniques to use at home.

To make sure you’re breathing deeply, put one hand on your chest and another on your belly. Concentrate on getting your belly to rise and fall as you breathe instead of your chest and shoulders. [14] X Research source Some people find it helpful to breathe in a soothing scent, such as peppermint. However, studies show that deep breathing by itself is very effective at calming nausea.

Some people find warm drinks more soothing. Stick to mild, clear fluids, like plain broth or weak tea. You can also suck on ice chips, eat a popsicle, or eat some Jell-o. If you have a child who’s been vomiting, call their pediatrician for advice. Kids can get dehydrated more easily, so they might need something to help restore missing electrolytes, like diluted apple juice. [17] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source

If you find it hard to stomach hot liquids, let the tea cool off before you drink it. Ginger in other forms is also good for relieving nausea. For example, you can eat ginger cookies, suck on ginger candy, sip ginger ale, or take ginger in capsule form. [20] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source If you use capsules, your doctor may recommend a taking 1000 mg split up over 4 doses throughout the day. [21] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Sucking on a peppermint candy or sniffing peppermint oil may also soothe your nausea.

The taste of lemon can also get rid of bad tastes in your mouth. If you’d rather not suck on a lemon, try a hard lemon candy or some lemonade.

If you’re hungry but don’t think you can handle solid foods, sip on broth or eat some Jell-o. [25] X Research source Gradually work your way up to mild, protein-rich foods, such as chicken breast, fish, eggs, or yogurt. BRAT foods are also good for replenishing nutrients and restoring your energy after throwing up or having diarrhea.

Take your time while you eat and sit down to rest for at least 30 minutes after each meal. Eating too fast or doing anything strenuous right after a meal can upset your stomach. [27] X Research source When you skip meals, your blood sugar can drop too low—and that can make your nausea worse. [28] X Research source

Dry carbs, such as dry cereal or toast without butter, are typically the easiest to handle.

Fried meats or eggs Gravy and heavy sauces Creams and cream-based dishes Onions and garlic Sweet baked goods and pastries, such as doughnuts, cakes, and cookies Spicy foods, like chili or hot sauce

Smoking can upset your stomach as well, so avoid cigarettes or marijuana if they make you feel sick.

Another promising supplement for reducing nausea is vitamin B6. Some studies show that B6 is as effective as ginger for treating nausea during pregnancy. If you’re struggling with morning sickness, ask your doctor to recommend a safe dose. [33] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Most causes of nausea are not harmful, and include things like viral infections, motion sickness, acid reflux, certain medications, or hormonal changes (e. g. , related to pregnancy or your menstrual cycle). More serious causes of nausea that require medical attention include appendicitis, intestinal obstructions or blockages, cancer, poisoning, and peptic ulcer disease (PUD). Persistent vomiting can cause dehydration, especially in small children. If you or your child can’t keep down fluids or experience symptoms such as extreme thirst, dark-colored or less frequent urine, sunken eyes, a dry mouth, severe tiredness or irritability, or crying without tears, get medical attention right away. [35] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source