Caring for your HIV-related problem: Nausea 
PROBLEM: Nausea, upset stomach, retching, heaving, sickness of the stomach. Nausea may be accompanied by actual vomiting.

This problem may be due to infections, HIV medications, other drugs, radiation treatments, emotional stress (anxiety), allergic reactions, or other health problems.
TREATMENT:  There are many ways to treat this problem. The first step is to contact your physician or nurse. By working together, a treatment plan can be developed for you. This plan may include prescription or non-prescription medications, counseling, or other treatments (e.g., DramamineTM, EmetrolTM, or BenadrylTM, or other treatments (e.g., use of medical marijuana to decrease the nausea, acupuncture, extra fluids if you have been sick for a few days).
SELF CARE:  Here are some strategies you may try to help you feel better:
  • Avoid odors, sights or sounds that trigger the feeling.
  • Breathe in fresh air.
  • Some pleasant smells decrease the feeling of nausea, such as lemon or lime peels, and ginger.
  • Aromatherapy, such as extract of wild strawberry or ginger (e.g., tea, pills or soda), seems to help some people.
  • Try relaxing activities such as music, relaxation tapes, massage or Tai-Chi.
  • Avoid greasy, fried foods, and alcohol.
  • Eat small portions of food when least sick.
  • Try eating dry foods such as toast and crackers.
  • Remain sitting for at least 30 minutes after eating.
  • Try to eat and drink when you aren’t feeling sick.
  • Save your favorite foods for when you are feeling well.
  • Take your medications as prescribed.
Guidelines for the symptoms of
Anxiety Depression Diarrhea Fatigue Fever
Forgetfulness Insomnia Lipodystrophy Nausea Neuropathy
Night Sweats Shortness of Breath Skin Rash/Dermatitis Unplanned Weight Loss Vaginal Problems
Home|Symptom Management Strategies|Resources Online|Email the Nurse        ©Dean Wantland MS, RN, MSN
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