As an uncomfortable and distressing symptom, nausea can make even the simplest of daily tasks seem impossible. When constipation is the underlying cause of your sickness, the good news is that you can find relief quickly and naturally in several ways. By making a few minor changes and being gentle with yourself, you’ll be back to feeling like yourself in no time. In the meantime, take a deep breath and know this will pass. The following remedies can help reduce nausea from constipation and relieve discomfort quickly so you can get on with your day. Staying hydrated, walking and light exercise, ginger, peppermint or lemon essential oils, gentle yoga poses, and over-the-counter medications are all options worth trying, depending on the severity of your symptoms. Be patient and listen to what your body needs. Relief will come.
Understanding the Link Between Constipation and Nausea
Constipation, difficulty passing stools, and nausea often go hand in hand. When you experience constipation, the seat remains in the bowels longer, allowing more time for toxins and gasses to build up. These byproducts can enter the bloodstream and travel to the part of your brain that controls nausea and vomiting, causing you to feel sick to your stomach.
Relieving your constipation is the best way to reduce associated nausea. Here are some recommendations:
- Drink plenty of water and other clear fluids like herbal tea to stay hydrated. Aim for 6-8 glasses per day. Hydration softens stools and makes them easier to pass.
- Increase your fiber intake. Eat more high-fiber foods such as beans, broccoli, prunes, and bran cereal. Fiber helps promote regularity. You can also take a fiber supplement like psyllium husk to boost your fiber quickly.
- Exercise regularly. Even light activities like walking can stimulate bowel movements. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
- Use an over-the-counter stool softener or laxative as directed to help pass blocked stools. Products with senna, bisacodyl, or polyethylene glycol are gentle yet practical options.
- Apply a warm compress to your abdomen. The heat will help relax your abdominal muscles and provide relief from discomfort.
By relieving your constipation, you can reduce nausea and improve digestion and comfort. Be patient through the process and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or get worse. The key is to determine the underlying cause of your constipation and take steps to get your bowels back on track.
Lifestyle Changes That Can Provide Constipation and Nausea Relief
To relieve nausea from constipation, making lifestyle changes can help get your digestive system back on track.
- Drink plenty of water and other non-caffeinated fluids to stay hydrated. Aim for 6-8 glasses per day. Staying hydrated softens stools and makes them easier to pass, relieving pressure and discomfort.
- Increase fiber intake. Eat more high-fiber foods such as beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spinach, avocados, berries, and whole grains. Fiber helps add bulk to stools and promotes regularity. You can also take a fiber supplement like psyllium husk or methylcellulose.
- Get some exercise. Go for walks or do some light physical activity. Exercise helps stimulate bowel movements and the passage of gas. Even gentle yoga or stretching can help.
- Apply a warm compress. Place a heating pad or warm washcloth on your abdomen to help relax your abdominal muscles and relieve cramping.
- Try an over-the-counter product. Stool softeners, laxatives, antacids, or ginger supplements can relieve nausea and make bowel movements easier to pass. Follow the directions and don’t use it for more than a week unless directed by a doctor.
- See a doctor if needed. If your constipation and nausea do not improve with home treatments or are accompanied by severe pain, vomiting, or other issues, consult your physician. They may want to examine you or run some tests to determine the underlying cause.
Making constructive changes to your diet, staying active and hydrated, using warmth, and taking occasional over-the-counter products can significantly relieve nausea from constipation. Be patient through the process, as it can take time for your digestive system to adjust. With diligent effort, you will start to feel better.
Herbal Remedies to Reduce Nausea From Constipation
To relieve nausea from constipation, several herbal remedies may provide relief. Herbal medicines can work gently and naturally to alleviate your symptoms. However, always talk to your doctor before trying any herbal remedy to ensure safety and avoid interactions with any medications you’re taking.
- Peppermint or Ginger Tea
Peppermint and ginger tea are well-known herbal remedies for nausea. The refreshing aroma and flavor of peppermint calm the stomach, while ginger has anti-nausea properties. Brew a cup of peppermint or ginger tea and sip it slowly. The warmth can also relax your stomach muscles to relieve cramping. You may drink up to 3 cups a day.
- Probiotics
Probiotics help maintain the natural balance of bacteria in your gut. When constipation causes a backup and imbalance, nausea can result. Probiotic supplements, yogurt with live active cultures, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut contain good bacteria to help restore balance in the gut. Start with a small amount and gradually increase servings over days or weeks as your body adjusts.
- Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds contain compounds that help relax gastrointestinal muscles and stimulate digestion. For nausea relief, steep 1-2 teaspoons of crushed fennel seeds in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink the tea, or simply chew 1/2 teaspoon of the seeds. Fennel has a licorice-like flavor and natural soothing effect on the stomach.
- Peppermint or Spearmint Essential Oils
For quick relief from nausea, place a few drops of peppermint or spearmint essential oil on a cloth or tissue and inhale slowly. You can also dilute a few drops in a carrier oil like jojoba oil and rub on your abdomen. The refreshing aromatic compounds in these oils help relax the stomach and ease nausea. Be very careful using essential oils, especially if you have sensitive skin. Always do a patch test first and never ingest them.
Over-the-counter medications to Relieve Nausea and Constipation
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are readily available options you can try to relieve nausea from constipation. Several types of OTC drugs may provide relief.
- Antihistamines
Antihistamines, like Dramamine® (dimenhydrinate) and Bonine® (meclizine), can reduce nausea. These medications work by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that can trigger nausea and vomiting. The typical dosage for Dramamine is 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed. For Bonine, the standard dosage is 50 mg, with a maximum of 2 doses in 24 hours.
- Antacids
Antacids, such as Pepto-Bismol® (bismuth subsalicylate) and TUMS® (calcium carbonate), may decrease nausea from constipation by reducing stomach acidity. The standard dosage for Pepto-Bismol is 2 tablespoons (30 mL) every 30 to 60 minutes until symptoms improve, for a maximum of 8 doses. For TUMS, you can take 2 to 4 tablets every 2 hours as needed. Be aware that antacids can interact with some medications, so check with your pharmacist first.
- Probiotics
Probiotic supplements contain live bacteria, such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, that can improve gut health and relieve constipation. Common probiotic brands include Culturelle®, Align®, and Florastor®. Follow the dosage instructions on the product packaging to determine how many capsules to take each day to relieve your symptoms. It may take several days of regular use to experience the full benefits. Probiotics can be used in combination with OTC or prescription medications as directed.
In severe or persistent cases of nausea from constipation, you may need to consult your doctor regarding prescription medication options to provide relief. But for many people, OTC treatments are effective for reducing discomfort. Be sure to follow all dosage instructions carefully and talk to your pharmacist if you have any concerns about possible drug interactions or side effects.
When to See a Doctor for Persistent Nausea and Constipation Issues
While occasional nausea and constipation are usually not cause for concern and will often resolve on their own or with simple home treatments, persistent or severe symptoms can indicate an underlying issue that requires medical evaluation and treatment. You should consult your doctor if:
Symptoms last longer than a week
Prolonged nausea and constipation can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and other complications. Seek medical care right away if symptoms are accompanied by:
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
There are signs of bowel obstruction
- Inability to pass stools or gas
- Swollen abdomen
- Vomiting feces
A bowel obstruction is a medical emergency. Call your doctor or go to an emergency room immediately.
There are other alarming symptoms
- Blood in stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
These can indicate an underlying condition like a gastrointestinal bleed, ulcer, or heart issue that requires diagnosis and treatment.
Home treatments and OTC medications are not provide relief
If increasing fiber, staying hydrated, and taking an OTC product like MiraLAX® or Imodium® are not alleviating your symptoms after a few days, consult your physician. They may order tests or imaging to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.
In some cases, prescription medication or even hospitalization may be required to relieve severe or persistent nausea and constipation and prevent dangerous complications. Do not delay contacting your doctor if your symptoms significantly impact your quality of life or ability to stay hydrated and nourished. Your health and safety should be the top priority.
Conclusion
So, in summary, you have several options to help reduce nausea caused by constipation. First, drink plenty of water and other clear fluids to stay hydrated while helping loosen your stools. Peppermint or ginger tea can be incredibly soothing. Eating high-fiber, probiotic foods will help gently get your digestion back on track. Over-the-counter medications like Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, or Dramamine can provide quick relief from nausea and loosen stools. If your nausea persists for over a few days, see your doctor to determine if any other underlying issues must be addressed. With the proper self-care and, if required, medical guidance, you can get your constipation and nausea under control and start feeling like yourself again.
