4. Nausea or Vomiting: The Stomach’s Revolt
Nausea is that unsettling feeling in the pit of your stomach, signaling that all’s not well. Accompanying diarrhea, it indicates the digestive system is under siege. Vomiting, its more dramatic cousin, is the body’s way of expelling unwanted substances from the upper intestine.
Diarrhea often involves the lower digestive tract, but when nausea and vomiting join the fray, it’s a sign the upper tract is involved. This could be due to infections, certain spicy or rich foods, or even due to systemic illnesses. Nausea acts as a warning light, indicating the body is gearing up to protect itself.
What’s fascinating is that nausea isn’t always about the stomach. The brain plays a crucial role here. Centers in the brain, when stimulated by various triggers like infections or toxins, lead to the feeling of nausea. It’s a coordinated dance between the brain and the gut, with each influencing the other.
Vomiting, on the other hand, is a more active response. It’s the body’s method of ‘cleaning house’. By expelling the contents of the stomach, the body is trying to remove any irritants or toxins. While it might seem distressing, it’s a testament to the body’s robust defense mechanisms. (4)
