Scuba 101: Feeling Green Around The Gills?
Nausea is nasty – there is no doubt about it. We take a look at some of the best ways of resolving the root of problem with a few universal cures
Nausea is nasty – there is no doubt about it. This debilitating symptom can strike for a number of reasons: dehydration, motion sickness, morning sickness, food poisoning, too much sun – the list goes on. But fear not, there are a number of things you can try before you lose the will to live! Obviously, identifying the cause of the problem is step one, and will help guide you to the best way of helping yourself, but even if you can’t resolve the root of the problem, there are a few universal cures you can try.
Hydrate
Dehydration can cause nausea, and will make it worse if it’s caused by something else. Make sure you’re drinking enough water, as well as replacing your electrolytes with an isotonic drink, or fresh young coconut.
Rest your noggin
Try to keep your head as still as possible, and rest with your head slightly elevated if you can
Pressure point
Try the ancient wisdom of acupressure with the P6 point. For the most effective relief, stimulate this point for as long as possible on both wrists.
Cool compress
Apply a cool, wet cloth to the forehead and temples, or to the back of the neck, depending on which position you find most relieving
Stomaching it
Ginger (fresh, as capsules, in ginger ale or as a tea) and peppermint (tea works best!) are widely recognised as some of the best natural remedies for nausea. Flat cola is also highly effective.
Have regular small meals and stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, fizzy drinks and greasy or processed food.
Sweet smells soothe
Smelling pleasing aromas can cut through nausea quite effectively. Try slicing a lemon and gently inhaling the citrusy scent, or use like lavender or geranium.
Mind over matter
Nausea can often be exacerbated by anxiety, and then made worse by the worry that you’re going to vomit. Try to relax, if you need to let it out, then do – throwing up if you need to can be a huge relief!
Read the rest of this article in No.89 Issue 1/2017 of Scuba Diver magazine by subscribing here or check out all of our publications here.