Understanding Anxiety-Related Nausea

Anxiety affects not just the mind but also the body, often leading to physical symptoms such as nausea. Many individuals experience an upset stomach, queasiness, or digestive discomfort when feeling anxious. Understanding why anxiety nausea happens and how to manage it can provide relief and improve overall well-being.

At Rainfall Medicine in Portland and Hood River, OR, we take a holistic approach to anxiety treatment, offering ketamine-assisted therapy, mindfulness practices, and body-based healing techniques to help individuals find lasting relief.

Why Does Anxiety Cause Nausea?

Anxiety activates the body’s stress response, triggering physical reactions that can affect digestion. Some key factors that contribute to anxiety-induced nausea include:

1. Activation of the Fight-or-Flight Response

• Anxiety signals the brain to prepare for danger, releasing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
• These hormones slow down digestion, leading to nausea and stomach discomfort.

2. Increased Stomach Acid Production

• Anxiety can cause an overproduction of stomach acid, leading to acid reflux, indigestion, or nausea.
• This can worsen symptoms for individuals with GERD or sensitive stomachs.

3. Gut-Brain Connection

• The gut and brain are closely linked through the enteric nervous system.
• Anxiety can disrupt gut microbiota balance, leading to nausea, bloating, and discomfort.

4. Hyperventilation and Muscle Tension

• Rapid breathing during anxiety episodes can increase dizziness and nausea.
• Muscle tension in the abdomen may contribute to digestive discomfort.

How to Stop Anxiety-Related Nausea

If anxiety-induced nausea is interfering with daily life, there are practical strategies to reduce symptoms and regain control.

1. Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

• • Diaphragmatic Breathing: Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly.
  • Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense and release muscle groups to ease physical stress.
  • Mindfulness Meditation: Focus on the present moment to calm the nervous system.

2. Adjust Your Diet and Hydration

• • Eat small, frequent meals to stabilize blood sugar and prevent nausea.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and highly acidic foods, which can worsen symptoms.
  • Drink ginger or peppermint tea, both of which have natural anti-nausea properties.

3. Engage in Gentle Movement

• • Light physical activity, such as walking or stretching, can improve digestion and ease nausea.
  • Avoid lying down immediately after eating to reduce acid reflux risk.

4. Use Cognitive Techniques to Manage Anxiety

• • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Reframe negative thought patterns contributing to stress.
  • Grounding Exercises: The 5-4-3-2-1 method helps refocus your mind and reduce anxiety-driven nausea.

5. Consider Professional Anxiety Treatment

For individuals struggling with chronic anxiety nausea, professional intervention can provide long-term relief. At Rainfall Medicine, we offer:

• • Ketamine-Assisted Therapy – A research-backed treatment to help reset the nervous system and reduce anxiety symptoms.
  • Mindfulness-Based Healing – Techniques such as meditation, breathwork, and body awareness exercises.
  • Somatic Therapy – Helps individuals process and release anxiety stored in the body.

Take Control of Anxiety Nausea Today

Anxiety nausea can feel overwhelming, but it is manageable with the right strategies and treatment plan. If you’re struggling with chronic anxiety symptoms, including nausea, Rainfall Medicine in Portland and Hood River, OR provides compassionate, holistic care to help you find relief.

Contact us today to explore personalized treatment options and regain a sense of calm.

👉 Visit Rainfall Medicine to learn more about our anxiety treatment options.

📍 Located in Portland and Hood River, OR – Helping individuals achieve mental wellness through integrative, research-backed care.