Coughing and feeling like throwing up are uncomfortable symptoms that often occur together. While distressing, they frequently stem from various conditions, from mild to more serious. Understanding the potential reasons behind this combination can offer clarity and guide appropriate next steps.
Common Explanations
Many everyday conditions can lead to both coughing and a sensation of nausea or gagging. Post-nasal drip, a common culprit, involves mucus dripping down the back of the throat. This continuous irritation can trigger a cough, which may stimulate the gag reflex, leading to nausea or even vomiting.
Acid reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), is another frequent cause of these combined symptoms. When stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, it can irritate the lining, causing a persistent cough. This irritation and the sour taste of stomach acid can induce nausea and, in some instances, lead to vomiting. The cough associated with GERD may worsen at night or after meals.
Common respiratory infections like colds and the flu often present with a cough, and sometimes, nausea or vomiting. The intense coughing spells that accompany these illnesses can be forceful enough to trigger the gag reflex. Acute bronchitis, an inflammation of the airways, can also cause a cough that produces significant mucus, which may lead to gagging and vomiting as the body tries to expel it.
Less Frequent or Concerning Reasons
Beyond common infections, several other conditions, though less frequent, can explain why coughing leads to a feeling of nausea or vomiting. Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection characterized by severe, rapid coughing fits that often end with a distinctive “whooping” sound as the person gasps for air. These intense coughing episodes commonly result in vomiting due to their forceful nature.
Certain medications can also induce these symptoms as side effects. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, are known to cause a persistent, dry cough in some individuals. This cough can be severe enough to trigger nausea or vomiting. If you suspect your medication is causing these issues, it is important to discuss it with a healthcare provider.
Asthma, a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways, can also manifest with severe coughing spells. Some individuals experience “cough-variant asthma” where a persistent dry cough is the primary symptom. These prolonged or intense coughing fits can lead to gagging or vomiting, especially when the airways constrict. Additionally, anxiety can sometimes trigger physical symptoms, including coughing and nausea. The body’s stress response can lead to hyperventilation and muscle tension in the throat, which may induce a cough, and the generalized feeling of unease can contribute to nausea.
When Professional Help Is Needed
It is important to recognize when symptoms warrant a medical evaluation. If your cough and feeling of nausea persist for an extended period, such as several weeks, or worsen rapidly, seeking professional advice is advisable. A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Specific warning signs indicate a need for prompt medical attention:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- Persistent chest pain or pressure.
- A high fever or coughing up blood.
- Unexplained weight loss.
These signs may point to more serious conditions that require timely diagnosis and management.
General Comfort Measures
While awaiting a diagnosis or during recovery from mild illnesses, several general measures can help alleviate the discomfort of coughing and feeling nauseous. Staying well-hydrated is important, as fluids can help thin mucus and soothe an irritated throat. Water, clear broths, and herbal teas are good choices, while sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol should be limited as they can contribute to dehydration or stomach upset.
Several general measures can help alleviate discomfort:
- Get adequate rest to support the body’s healing process.
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, easing coughing and throat irritation.
- Avoid irritants such as smoke and strong fumes to prevent exacerbating respiratory symptoms.
- Eat bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, which are gentle on an upset stomach and help manage nausea.
- Consume ginger, known for its anti-nausea properties, perhaps as tea.