This NHS content is written for people in England. Services, contact routes and treatment arrangements may differ in other countries.
Things that may help you stop feeling sick
Do
get plenty of fresh air
distract yourself – for example, listen to music or watch a film
take regular sips of a cold drink
drink ginger or peppermint tea
eat foods containing ginger – such as ginger biscuits
eat smaller, more frequent meals
Don't
do not eat or cook strong-smelling food
do not eat hot, fried or greasy food
do not eat too quickly
do not have a large drink with meals
do not lie down soon after eating
do not wear clothes that are tight around your waist or tummy
See a GP if you:
- are feeling sick and do not feel better in a few days
- often feel sick (it keeps coming back)
The GP can look for the cause and suggest treatments.
They may prescribe anti-sickness medicine if needed.
Call 111 for advice if you cannot see a GP.
Call 999 if:
You suddenly feel sick and have:
- chest pain that feels tight or heavy
- pain that spreads to your arms, back, neck or jaw
- shortness of breath
This could be a heart attack.
Common causes of feeling sick
Lots of things can make you feel sick.
Any other symptoms you have may give you an idea of the cause. But do not self-diagnose – see a GP if you're worried.
Other reasons for feeling sick include:
- pregnancy (morning sickness)
- motion sickness
- anxiety
- alcohol
- medicines
- recent surgery
Feeling sick (nausea)
Feeling sick (nausea)
Content supplied by the NHS website, refreshed 19 August 2026. View the original NHS article ↗
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