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Stress can negatively affect the digestive system, which is intricately linked to the brain. Psychogenic nausea, constipation, and diarrhea are among the typical symptoms that may develop due to stress. The article provides insights into the features of anxiety-induced nausea and tips on how to prevent it.
What is psychogenic nausea and vomiting
Psychogenic vomiting is a mental disorder that can occur chronically or at specific times, with vomiting being the main symptom. Interestingly, this condition is more common in women than men, and is often diagnosed in emotionally unstable or neurotic individuals. Additionally, psychogenic vomiting can also be found in the following groups of people:
- teenagers;
- adults with mental or nervous disorders;
- patients with gastrointestinal problems.
Why psychogenic vomiting occurs
Psychogenic vomiting can be induced by offering someone a dish that is not considered edible in their cultural society, causing them to feel nauseous even before trying it. However, the primary cause of this unpleasant condition is thought to be the heightened excitability of the brain. Nausea that arises suddenly may also be a reaction to a strong emotional outburst, such as a stressful interview, wedding, or challenging exam. Additionally, psychogenic vomiting may be caused by neurotic reactions such as:
- torturous doubts and uncertainty;
- fear of showing emotions;
- negative expectations and thoughts about possible events;
- hypercontrol of sensations in the body caused by hypochondria.
Symptoms of psychogenic vomiting
Distinguishing nausea resulting from stress and that caused by gastrointestinal problems is relatively straightforward. One needs to undergo tests with a gastroenterologist to ensure that the gastrointestinal tract is operating correctly. In addition, psychogenic vomiting can be identified through the following symptoms:
- Nausea occurs in the morning and is accompanied by increased anxiety.
- Sweating increases during exacerbation of the condition.
- Blood pressure decreases.
- Heart rate increases.
- Working capacity decreases, and a person experiences total weakness.
The uniqueness of this condition is that a person may respond intensely and even inappropriately to situations and stimuli that typically would not trigger irritation.
How to prevent nausea from anxiety
According to experts, the treatment of psychogenic nausea and vomiting should be customized based on the patient’s overall condition and the severity of their symptoms. The following techniques are commonly used to treat nervous nausea:
- Taking medication that regulates the nervous system’s functioning.
- Collaborating with a psychotherapist to identify any underlying mental illnesses that may exacerbate the condition.
- Developing healthy eating habits.
To prevent the onset of psychogenic vomiting and reduce stress, it is necessary to organize one’s lifestyle to minimize factors that elicit a negative response in the body. For instance, ensuring adequate sleep is essential to maintain a healthy state as it allows the body to recover and replenish depleted energy stores.
Participating in enjoyable activities is considered an effective way to enhance a person’s emotional and mental well-being. If you anticipate encountering a stressful situation, dedicate some time to your preferred hobby, such as reading books, watching TV shows, or cooking, as it can help you distract yourself from your worries for some time.
Additionally, meditation or other relaxation methods suitable for you can help prevent psychogenic vomiting. To alleviate stress, try any relaxation technique that helps you unwind and disconnect from the surrounding world, such as yoga, taking a bath with sea salt, or getting a massage with essential oils.
For individuals who often experience anxiety-induced nausea, it is crucial to follow the generally accepted principles of rational nutrition and ensure that the gastrointestinal tract functions correctly. For instance, nutritionists suggest avoiding overeating and hunger, as well as eating on the go for those susceptible to psychogenic nausea.
To alleviate unpleasant symptoms, minimize the intake of fried and spicy foods and replace them with healthier and less processed foods. It is also essential to eat 4-5 small meals a day slowly and chew your food properly. Moreover, consuming foods rich in complex carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamin A, and magnesium, such as chicken liver, eggs, figs, boiled fish, seafood, and citrus fruits, is an important aspect of an anti-stress diet.
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