Fact Checked
There are various conditions that causes nausea after eating. The common causes include food poisoning or even pregnancy.
It is vital to take a close look at the symptoms to pinpoint the possible cause of nausea. Once the issue has been identified, the doctor can determine the ideal treatment.
What are the possible causes?
- Food allergies – certain foods such as eggs, shellfish or nuts might be identified by the body as a threat. Upon eating these foods, the immune system triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals that instigate the allergy symptoms that range from hives, mouth swelling and even nausea.
- Stomach virus
Nausea that occurs occasionally after eating is not an issue for concern, but it if occurs up to a week, a doctor should be consulted. - Food poisoning
- Pregnancy – the initial signs of being pregnant is a queasy, uneasy sensation usually at the 2nd month of pregnancy
- Acid reflux
- Gallbladder disease
- Stress and anxiety
- Cancer treatment
- Motion sickness
- Irritable bowel syndrome
When to consult a doctor
Nausea that occurs occasionally after eating is not an issue for concern, but it if occurs up to a week, a doctor should be consulted. A doctor must be consulted if any of these symptoms are present:
- Chest pain
- Blood-streak stool or vomit
- Confusion
- Fever of 101.5 degrees F or higher
- Diarrhea lasting for more than a few days
- Excessive thirst, weakness, reducing urine production or dizziness (dehydration)
- Rapid heart rate
- Intense abdominal pain
- Severe vomiting or difficulty in keeping food down
The outlook is usually based on the exact cause of nausea and how it is treated. Generally, nausea after a meal eventually gets better once the root of the problem is dealt with.
Prevention
- Provide the individual with ice cubes to suck on
- Avoid fried, greasy or spicy foods
- Eat and drink in a steady manner
- Eat bland foods such as toast or crackers
- It is recommended to relax after eating to allow food to be digested properly
- Eat several small meals throughout the day
- Serve foods cold or at room temperature if the smell of cooked food makes the individual feel queasy.