Feeling nauseous or experiencing the sensation of throwing up after a bout of coughing is a disquieting experience many individuals encounter. This phenomenon often leaves people wondering about the underlying reasons behind such a strong physiological response. Understanding why this occurs can provide clarity regarding this uncomfortable symptom.
Common Reasons for Feeling Nauseous After Coughing
A strong cough can directly stimulate the gag reflex, a natural protective mechanism located at the back of the throat. This reflex, when activated by irritation from persistent coughing, can quickly lead to a feeling of nausea or even actual vomiting. The forceful expulsion of air during a cough can also trigger this response.
Post-nasal drip, where excess mucus flows down the back of the throat, frequently contributes to this discomfort. This mucus can irritate the sensitive tissues of the throat, intensifying the urge to cough and subsequently triggering the gag reflex. When swallowed, this accumulated mucus can also upset the stomach lining, contributing to a feeling of queasiness.
Vigorous coughing puts significant pressure on the diaphragm and abdominal muscles. This muscular contraction compresses the stomach, potentially pushing its contents upwards and inducing a sensation of nausea. The mechanical force exerted during a severe coughing fit can provoke an emetic response.
The vagus nerve, a major nerve connecting the brain to many organs including the throat, stomach, and intestines, also plays a role. Intense coughing can stimulate this nerve, transmitting signals that contribute to feelings of nausea and the urge to vomit. This neural pathway links the respiratory and digestive systems.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can be a significant factor, as stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus can trigger a chronic cough. This acid irritation not only causes the cough but can also directly lead to nausea or vomiting, especially after a coughing spell.
Asthma, characterized by inflamed and narrowed airways, often involves severe coughing fits that can be intense enough to induce nausea or vomiting. These coughing episodes, a common symptom of asthma, can be prolonged and forceful. The sustained effort of coughing can trigger a gagging sensation.
Bronchitis and other respiratory infections frequently cause persistent, phlegm-producing coughs. The continuous irritation from mucus and inflammation in the airways can lead to frequent gagging during coughing episodes. This can result in nausea, particularly when the cough is productive.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is known for its severe, uncontrollable coughing paroxysms that often end with a characteristic “whooping” sound followed by vomiting. This bacterial infection causes intense and prolonged coughing fits that frequently trigger the emetic reflex.
Allergies can also contribute by causing post-nasal drip and throat irritation, leading to a persistent cough. The constant dripping of mucus down the throat can induce a gagging sensation and stomach upset, which can lead to nausea.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If nausea after coughing persists for an extended period or significantly worsens, it warrants medical evaluation. Persistent symptoms that do not improve with home care may indicate an underlying issue requiring professional diagnosis.
Coughing up blood, even in small amounts, requires immediate medical attention. This could indicate an infection, irritation, or a more concerning condition. Severe chest pain or shortness of breath alongside coughing and nausea also warrants prompt medical care.
Unexplained weight loss occurring concurrently with a cough and nausea should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. This combination of symptoms can indicate chronic or systemic illnesses. High fever or chills accompanying these symptoms may suggest a significant infection.
If the cough and nausea begin to interfere with daily activities or disrupt sleep patterns, consult a doctor. These symptoms can severely impact quality of life and may require medical intervention. For infants or young children experiencing these symptoms, medical attention is important due to their vulnerability and potential for dehydration.
Strategies for Relief
Staying well-hydrated helps thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the throat and airways. Drinking plenty of water, herbal teas, or clear broths can also help soothe an irritated throat. Adequate fluid intake can reduce the intensity of coughing, lessening the likelihood of nausea.
Over-the-counter cough suppressants or expectorants can offer relief by reducing the frequency or intensity of the cough. Cough suppressants calm the cough reflex, while expectorants assist in loosening and expelling mucus. Always consult a healthcare professional before using such medications, especially if other health conditions are present.
Sucking on throat lozenges or consuming warm drinks like tea with honey can provide temporary soothing to an irritated throat. This helps reduce the urge to cough and minimize associated nausea. Avoiding known triggers, such as smoke, strong odors, or allergens, can also prevent coughing fits and subsequent nausea.
If nausea is present, eating small, bland meals can help prevent stomach upset. Foods like toast, crackers, or plain rice are often easier to digest and less likely to provoke nausea. Limiting fatty, spicy, or acidic foods can also be beneficial in managing digestive discomfort.