What Is Nausea?
Nausea is the sense of an uneasy stomach. It may be mild or severe. In many cases, nausea is accompanied by vomiting or the feeling that you need to vomit. You also may not feel like eating.
Nausea occurs as a response to signals sent from the brain and nervous system to the digestive tract. These signals target multiple organs in the body.
Many conditions, some of them serious, can lead to nausea symptoms. They include:
Is Nausea a Symptom of Menopause?
Nausea can be a symptom of menopause and may occur along with hot flashes. Up to 75% of people experiencing menopause report a pattern of menopause symptoms that include hot flashes, night sweats, headaches, and insomnia (trouble sleeping).
The causes of nausea during menopause include:
- A decrease in certain hormone levels
- Hot flashes in your body
- Medication side effects
Decreased Hormone Levels
Menopause is marked by a decrease in the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Both hormones play a role in reproductive health by regulating the menstrual cycle.
By the time a woman approaches menopausal age, those hormones begin to drop. This signals the beginning of menopause. During that time, the decrease in hormone levels can lead to nausea in some people.
Hot Flashes
One of the most common symptoms of menopause is hot flashes. Hot flashes are caused by decreased estrogen levels sending mixed signals to the hypothalamus, the body’s thermostat.
Hot flashes are sensations of excessive warmth that come and go throughout the day. The areas of the body typically affected are the head, neck, and chest. Hot flashes can be accompanied by red and blotchy skin, prickly skin, and sweating.
When to See Your Healthcare Provider
While menopause-induced nausea isn’t dangerous, it can significantly affect quality of life.
In some cases, treating nausea at home can work. But if it interferes with your ability to participate in your day-to-day life, you should see your healthcare provider. They will work with you to determine the best course of action to alleviate your nausea and other symptoms of menopause as well.
When Nausea Needs Immediate Medical Care
Nausea can be a symptom of a heart attack or other life-threatening condition, such as a stroke. If you experience nausea accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms, seek emergency medical help or call 911 immediately.
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Recent head injury
- Severe headache
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting blood
- Extreme weakness
- High fever (over 101 F)
- Blurred vision or eye pain
- Confusion or stiff neck
Summary
Nausea is an uncommon but possible symptom of menopause. It can be caused by hot flashes, hormone replacement therapy, or natural hormone reductions that occur with menopause.
While not everyone will experience nausea because of menopause, some will. Fortunately, it can be managed effectively with either over-the-counter or natural remedies. Lifestyle changes also can help to reduce nausea symptoms during menopause. Talk to your healthcare provider about steps you can take, and be sure to contact them if your nausea persists or interferes with your daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early does menopause start?
The onset of menopause can vary. People are most likely to begin menopause between the ages of 45 and 55. However, it can start as early as age 40.
What are other symptoms of menopause?
In addition to nausea, other symptoms of menopause include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness and sexual dysfunction
- Painful intercourse
- Thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls
- Weakened pelvic muscles
- Lower sex drive
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Depression and other mood changes
- Anxiety
- Changes in memory retention
- Poor concentration
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional period prior to the onset of menopause. During perimenopause, your menstrual cycle begins changing, and physical and emotional symptoms arise. Perimenopause can last anywhere from two to 10 years.
How long does menopause last?
The menopause timeline will vary depending on the person and their lifestyle factors. Roughly speaking, the transitional period typically lasts seven years. In some cases, it can go on for as long as 14 years.
