Can Anxiety Cause Nausea? Why It Happens & How to Stop It?

Can anxiety cause nausea? Our common perception of anxiety is that it is a disorder that causes feelings of unease, concern, fear, tension, and panic. It’s crucial to realize that anxiety disorders are, in reality, medical problems that can manifest not only as mental symptoms but also as physical ones. Keep reading to learn more about the link between nausea and anxiety.


Can Anxiety Cause Nausea?

Anxiety shows up in different ways, both emotionally and physically. Emotionally, it can make you nervous, worried, and hard to focus. Physically, it triggers your body’s fight-or-flight response, affecting breathing, heart rate, and digestion. People experience anxiety differently—muscle tension, trembling, butterflies in the stomach, or even sweating.

With these varied symptoms, how can you tell if it’s anxiety or something else?

Anxiety, a stress response, brings both mental and physical symptoms. When anxious, your heart and breathing might speed up, and you might feel queasy. This nausea can pass quickly, but in some cases, it can lead to feeling so sick that you might need a quick bathroom trip or even experience vomiting. Occasional anxiety is normal, but if it often comes with nausea, it might be worth exploring ways to manage it or consulting a doctor if needed.

How to Tell If Nausea is From Anxiety?

Anxiety can lead to stomach issues. Your digestive system, often called your “second brain,” has many nerves. When you’re anxious, the hormones released can cause problems like nausea, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, and issues with digestion—either diarrhea or constipation.

Feeling nauseous due to anxiety is not a pleasant combo. Stress and anxiety can bring physical symptoms, and yes, nausea is one of them. It varies from a minor disruption to affecting your daily life.

There’s a strong correlation between anxiety and nausea, but not everyone with anxiety experiences it. Stress is a common culprit, and sometimes, stress itself can cause nausea, creating a cycle. If it’s occasional, it’s likely anxiety-related, but if it persists, it might be worth exploring further. Connecting with the right therapy can make a difference in managing both anxiety and its physical symptoms.

What Causes Anxiety Nausea?

Anxiety activates your body’s emergency response—fight, flight, or freeze. It’s a natural reaction to stress, preparing you for a crisis. Anxiety impacts almost every body system, affecting the heart, hormones, muscles, nerves, reproductive organs, respiratory, and digestive systems.

When anxious, the following physical symptoms can occur:

  • Your hormones surge.
  • Your brain signals your body to pump the heart, breathe faster, tense muscles, and send more blood to the brain.
  • The digestive system can lead to nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomachache, gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and painful bowel spasms.
  • If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or chronic upset stomach, anxiety can worsen symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

Here are the anxiety disorders that may cause nausea:

  • Phobias.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), also known as chronic anxiety.
  • Panic disorder.
  • Social anxiety disorder.

Can Anxiety Cause Dizziness?

Are you feeling dizzy and light-headed? It might be more than just a physical issue—it could be linked to anxiety. Anxiety triggers a cascade of physiological responses, including changes in blood flow and breathing patterns, which can result in dizziness.

Anxiety disorders, especially panic disorders, are linked to dizziness. People with anxiety often report feeling dizzy or light-headed. Stress hormones released during the fight-or-flight response might impact the inner ear’s vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and movement coordination. This could explain why some individuals with anxiety disorders experience feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness.

Can Anxiety Cause Shortness of Breath?

Have you ever felt like anxiety took your breath away? You’re not alone. Stress and anxiety can indeed cause shortness of breath. When stress strikes, your body’s fight-or-flight response kicks in, leading to increased heart rate and rapid breathing. This can make you feel like you’re struggling for air.

When anxiety strikes, your breathing can speed up, but that’s not the same as shortness of breath. Shortness of breath feels like tightness in your chest and difficulty breathing, and it’s not a usual symptom of general anxiety. However, shortness of breath is linked to panic attacks and panic disorder, a specific type of anxiety.

If you experience sudden and severe shortness of breath, treating it as a medical emergency is crucial, as it could be a sign of a painful and life-threatening condition. Whether or not you have a history of panic attacks, heading to the emergency room is the right move in such cases.

Can Anxiety Cause Headaches?

Have you ever wondered if anxiety could be the culprit behind your pounding headache? The answer is yes. Anxiety can indeed cause headaches. When you’re anxious, your body responds with muscle tension, changes in blood flow, and heightened sensitivity to pain—all potential triggers for headaches.

Understanding this link is critical to managing both anxiety and the headaches it may bring. By addressing the issue’s root, you can find relief for your mind and your head. If persistent, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Get anxiety counseling that works. Overcome the physical and mental symptoms of it, such as nausea caused by anxiety. Discover professional help from We Level Up Florida’s mental health therapists. Start getting support with a free call to our mental health hotline.

Get Help. Get Better. Get Your Life Back.

Searching for Accredited Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Centers Near You?

Even if therapy failed previously, or are in the middle of a difficult crisis, we stand ready to support you. Our trusted behavioral health specialists will not give up on you. When you feel ready or just want someone to speak to about counseling alternatives to change your life call us. Even if we cannot assist you, we will lead you to wherever you can get support. There is no obligation. Call our hotline today.

FREE 24/7 Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Services Hotline

Managing Your Anxiety Nausea

When dealing with anxiety-induced nausea, it’s crucial to manage both your mind and body. Tracking when nausea occurs, noting the circumstances, and how you’ve tried to ease it can help understand its connection to anxiety. While some use over-the-counter medications, relying on them for long periods isn’t recommended. Some medicines may have adverse effects as well that can worsen your symptoms.

Opt for behavioral strategies instead. When nausea hits, try eating a small amount of dry food like plain crackers, sip water, and wear non-restrictive clothing. Deep breaths help calm you. Avoid fried, greasy, and sweet foods, and postpone intense physical activity. If nausea persists, prevent vomiting by sipping clear liquids and avoiding solid foods. Rest and stay calm to minimize anxiety.

Long-term solutions involve the following:

  • Avoid heavy and greasy foods and opt for smaller, frequent meals.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Limit alcohol and caffeine.
  • If over-the-counter remedies are often needed, or if vomiting is frequent, consult your doctor.
  • For anxiety-related nausea, consider general anxiety management techniques like mindfulness, regular exercise, and therapy for a lasting solution.

How to Stop Anxiety Nausea?

Here are science-backed strategies to stop anxiety-induced nausea:

  • Understanding the Connection: Anxiety triggers physiological responses, including changes in the digestive system, leading to sickness. Stress-related hormones released during the fight-or-flight response can impact the inner ear’s vestibular system, contributing to dizziness and nausea.
  • Tracking Triggers: Keep a journal to identify patterns—note when nausea occurs, the circumstances, and your response strategies.
  • Behavioral Strategies:
    • Deep Breathing: Practice diaphragmatic breathing to calm the nervous system.
    • Dietary Adjustments: Eat small, dry snacks like plain crackers or bread. Sip clear and cold fluids slowly. Avoid fried, greasy, and sweet foods. Stay hydrated, but limit alcohol and caffeine.
    • Clothing: Wear non-restrictive clothing to alleviate pressure on the abdomen.
  • Preventing Vomiting: Sip water and clear liquids in small amounts to replenish lost fluids. Avoid solid foods until the nausea subsides. Rest and stay calm to minimize anxiety, preventing further nausea.
  • Consulting a Healthcare Professional: If severe nausea persists, consult a doctor for personalized advice. If anxiety-induced nausea is a recurring issue, exploring therapy or medications with a healthcare professional is recommended.

Everyone is different, so it may take some experimentation to find the best strategies for you. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional ensures a tailored approach to managing anxiety-induced nausea.

How Can Therapy Treat Nausea Caused by Anxiety?

If anxiety-related nausea is impacting your life and self-management isn’t enough, it’s time to consult your doctor. If it’s not due to a medical issue, ask for a referral to a mental health professional. Talking therapies, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic psychotherapy, can assist in coping with anxiety. CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns, while psychodynamic psychotherapy explores the root causes of stress or anxiety.

While stress and anxiety are prevalent, there are effective ways to manage them. Various relaxation techniques and coping skills can help, whether it’s social anxiety, a panic attack, or anxiety sensitivity. If self-help methods aren’t sufficient, consider seeking support from an anxiety therapist. We Level Up FL mental health treatment can assist in connecting you with a suitable therapist today.

We Level Up FL Mental Health Treatment Center Tips To Cope With Anxiety and Nausea

✅ When anxiety and nausea strike, try deep breathing to calm your nerves.

✅ Opt for small, dry snacks like plain crackers and sip water slowly.

✅ Avoid greasy foods, stay hydrated, and consider consulting a healthcare professional for long-term solutions if needed.

Do you have questions about nausea from anxiety or anxiety treatment in general? Call our helpline 24/7.

Ryan Zofay forming a circle and hugging friends.

End the Emotional Pain. Get Your Life Back.

Feeling Depressed, Anxious or Struggling with Mental Health Illness? Get Safe Comfortable Mental Health Dual Diagnosis High-Quality Therapy From Counselors That Care. Begin Your Recovery Now.

Hotline (855) 940-6125
Can anxiety cause nausea? Yes. However, if your symptoms get worse and persist, like chest pain or difficulty breathing, go to the emergency room right away—even if you think it's just anxiety.
Can anxiety cause nausea? Yes. However, if your symptoms get worse and persist, like chest pain or difficulty breathing, go to the emergency room right away—even if you think it’s just anxiety.

Coping Tips for Anxiety Nausea

When stress kicks in and your heart races, breathing speeds up, or you start shaking, it can be frightening. In some cases, you might even feel anxious about these anxiety symptoms, making your overall anxiety worse. When feeling stressed, try to calm yourself with these coping tips:

Combat anxiety-induced nausea naturally with these tips:

  • Ginger Tea: Sip on ginger tea, known for its anti-nausea properties.
  •  Peppermint Aromatherapy: Inhale peppermint essential oil or sip peppermint tea.
  •  Deep Breathing: Practice deep, diaphragmatic breathing to relax your body.
  •  Lemon Balm: Try lemon balm tea for its calming effects.
  •  Chamomile Tea: Known for its soothing properties, chamomile tea can help alleviate anxiety-related nausea.

If your anxiety nausea symptoms get worse and persist, like chest pain or difficulty breathing, go to the emergency room right away—even if you think it’s just anxiety. If you’re dealing with stress a lot and it’s affecting your daily life, talk to your doctor or find a mental health provider. They can help you figure out why it’s happening and what to do about it.

First-class Facilities & Amenities

World-class High-Quality Mental Health Services & Behaviroal Health Substance Abuse Treatment

Rehab Centers Tour

Renowned Mental Health Centers. Serene Private Facilities. Inpatient Rehab Programs Vary.

Mental Health Helpline (855) 940-6125

Proven recovery success experience, backed by a Team w/ History of:

15+

Years of Unified Experience

100s

5-Star Reviews Across Our Centers

10K

Recovery Successes

  • Comprehensive Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
  • Complimentary Family & Alumni Programs
  • Coaching, Recovery & Development Events
  • Comfortable Onsite Medical Detox Center

Learn More About Treating Anxiety

Treating anxiety disorders is crucial as they significantly impact an individual’s well-being and daily functioning. Left untreated, anxiety disorders can escalate, leading to chronic physical health issues, strained relationships, and impaired job performance. Moreover, persistent anxiety may contribute to the development of other mental health conditions.

Effective treatment alleviates symptoms and empowers individuals to regain control over their lives. Psychotherapeutic interventions, medication management, and holistic approaches contribute to comprehensive treatment plans, promoting long-term mental health stability and improving overall quality of life. Seeking timely and appropriate treatment is essential to mitigate the potentially debilitating effects of anxiety disorders and foster a path toward lasting recovery.

Treatment plans are often personalized based on the individual’s needs, and a combination of these approaches may be utilized for comprehensive anxiety care.

  • Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy):
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Combines cognitive and behavioral therapies, emphasizing acceptance and change.
  • Medication Management:
    • Antidepressants: SSRIs, SNRIs, or benzodiazepines may be prescribed.
    • Anti-anxiety medications: Provide short-term relief from acute anxiety.
  • Holistic Approaches:
    • Mindfulness and Meditation: Techniques to promote relaxation and awareness.
    • Yoga and Exercise: Physical activity to reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Biofeedback and Neurofeedback: Techniques to monitor and control physiological responses.
  • Group Therapy: Peer support and shared experiences.
  • Mind-Body Interventions:
    • Art and Music Therapy: Creative expression for emotional release.
    • Massage and Acupuncture: Physical therapies promoting relaxation.
  • Residential or Inpatient Programs: Intensive, round-the-clock care for severe cases.
  • Teletherapy or Online Counseling: Access to therapy services remotely.

Inpatient programs for severe anxiety and nausea offer intensive care for people with painful symptoms. These programs provide a structured environment with 24/7 support from mental health professionals. Using therapy, medications, and holistic approaches, they target the root causes of anxiety and teach coping strategies. Inpatient treatment allows constant monitoring to quick plan adjustments and creates a supportive community. It’s beneficial for those in acute crises, ensuring a thorough approach to addressing anxiety and promoting long-term mental health stability.

We Level Up FL offers comprehensive and evidence-based treatment options for anxiety. Our approach is tailored to provide holistic and personalized care, addressing the unique needs of each individual. Our team is dedicated to creating a supportive and nurturing environment, guiding you through evidence-based therapies, counseling, and other effective interventions. Join us on a journey towards improved mental well-being.

Suppose you or someone you know is dealing with anxiety disorders, which affects their health and daily functioning. In that case, We Level Up Florida Mental Health Treatment Center provides personalized care with a team of experienced professionals. Begin your journey towards better health by taking the first step towards healing. Get help. Call We Level Up FL now. Each call is free and confidential.

World-class, Accredited, 5-Star Reviewed, Effective Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Programs. Complete Integrated Inpatient Rehab with Free Post Discharge Therapy Planning.

CALL (855) 940-6125

End the Emotional Pain Rollercoaster. Gain Stability & Happiness Through Recovery Treatment. Start Mental Health Counseling Today. Get Free No-obligation Guidance by Behaviroal Health Specialists Who Understand Mental Health Recovery.

Powerful Tips from a Therapist to Cope With Anxiety

Experience Transformative Recovery at the We Level Up Treatment Center.

See our authentic success stories. Get inspired. Get the help you deserve.

We Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Therapy We Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Therapy We Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Therapy
Hotline (855) 940-6125
Voluntarily testimonials from the We Level Up Treatment Center network vary. Not intended as a guaranteed treatment or outcome as each person's journey is unique.

Start a New Life

Begin with a free call to a behavioral health treatment advisor. Learn more about our dual-diagnosis programs. The We Level Up treatment center network delivers recovery programs that vary by each treatment facility. Call to learn more.

  • Personalized Care
  • Caring Accountable Staff
  • World-class Amenities
  • Licensed & Accredited
  • Renowned w/ 5-Star Reviews

We’ll Call You


Search We Level Up FL Can Anxiety Cause Nausea? Mental Health Topics & Resources
Sources
  1. Tarbell SE, Shaltout HA, Wagoner AL, Diz DI, Fortunato JE. Relationship among nausea, anxiety, and orthostatic symptoms in pediatric patients with chronic unexplained nausea. Exp Brain Res. 2014 Aug;232(8):2645-50. Doi: 10.1007/s00221-014-3981-2. Epub 2014 May 15. PMID: 24829068; PMCID: PMC7978495.
  2. Haug TT, Mykletun A, Dahl AA. The prevalence of nausea in the community: psychological, social and bodily factors. Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2002 Mar-Apr;24(2):81-6. Doi: 10.1016/s0163-8343(01)00184-0. PMID: 11869741.
  3. Bandelow B, Michaelis S, Wedekind D. Treatment of anxiety disorders. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2017 Jun;19(2):93-107. Doi: 10.31887/DCNS.2017.19.2/bbandelow. PMID: 28867934; PMCID: PMC5573566.
  4. Is nausea a symptom of anxiety? Chand SP, Marwaha R. Anxiety Signs, and Symptoms. [Updated 2023 Apr 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470361/
  5. Anxiety Disorders – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
  6. Stress and your health – Office on Women’s Health (.gov)
  7. Stress and your health: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
  8. Does anxiety cause nausea? – The Stress Response and How it Can Affect You – Veterans Affairs (.gov)
  9. Munir S, Takov V. Generalized Anxiety Disorder. [Updated 2022 Oct 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441870/
  10. Robinson OJ, Vytal K, Cornwell BR, Grillon C. The impact of anxiety upon cognition: perspectives from the human threat of shock studies. Front Hum Neurosci. 2013 May 17;7:203. Doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2013.00203. PMID: 23730279; PMCID: PMC3656338.