Causes of Morning Nausea in the Elderly

Morning nausea in elderly women is a common complaint – and (quick word of advice) none of them find it funny when a family member jokingly asks if they might be pregnant. Nausea is not fun at any time of day, but it can be particularly miserable to wake up that way every morning.

Often, morning nausea in the elderly is caused by low blood sugar. Low blood sugar is a result of the long length of time between dinner and breakfast. There is a reason they say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and eating breakfast can help with this sort of nausea.

Causes of Morning Nausea in the Elderly

In addition to low blood sugar, there are other causes of nausea in the elderly. Some of them include:

• Fatigue. Not getting enough sleep can contribute to feelings of nausea in the morning.

• Acid reflux. Also known as heartburn, can cause nausea in addition to burning feelings in the stomach and throat. Eating too close to bedtime can lead to acid reflux, which can in turn, lead to morning nausea.

• Anxiety and stress. Anxiety can cause feelings of discomfort and nausea.

• Gastroparesis. This digestive issue means the stomach muscles do not function properly, which can lead to nausea.

• Migraine. Nausea is a common symptom of a migraine and can occur even without the typical head pain that usually signifies a migraine.

• Dehydration. It is so important to stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause a multitude of problems, like dizziness, exhaustion, and even nausea.

• Medication. Nausea is a side effect of some medications frequently taken by elderly individuals.

• Ear issues. Problems with your ear, even if it doesn’t feel clogged, can lead to feelings of nausea and vertigo.

Unfortunately, sometimes feelings of nausea in elderly women don’t always have an identifiable cause. The brain can tell you that you feel nauseous without your stomach getting involved. Elderly nausea is important to take seriously, especially if it is persistent.

Home Remedies for Nausea in the Elderly

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If you want to avoid medication, there are a few things you can try to reduce your nausea:

• Ginger or peppermint tea. Both herds have scientific backing demonstrating they are good for your stomach and can help with nausea. Even just the smell of peppermint can sometimes provide relief.

• Eating foods containing ginger, such as cookies or candied ginger.

• Sipping a cold drink.

• Eating multiple small portions.

Nausea and weakness in elderly individuals often go hand in hand and should be monitored and discussed with a doctor. A doctor can help pinpoint the cause and come up with a solution. Nausea can also indicate a more serious underlying condition, so don’t blow it off or feel it is not important enough to bring up at your doctor’s appointments.