Functional nausea is nausea that has lasted for at least 2 months, at least 2 times per week, is not related meals, and not caused by any other medical conditions. In some cases, children with functional nausea also have functional vomiting. Both of these diagnoses are more common in children with underlying anxiety and depression. The nausea can range from mild to severe, may come and go, and commonly starts early in the morning while improving throughout the day. Functional nausea is often associated with abdominal pain.
Although functional nausea is not a life-threatening condition, it can disrupt your child’s ability to function on a daily basis as it can interfere with their schooling and social life.
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What are the signs and symptoms of functional nausea?
The most common symptom is nausea that does not go away. Other symptoms may include:
- Vomiting
- Becoming pale
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Feeling tired
Please note there are many conditions that have similar symptoms. It’s important to see your child’s doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What causes functional nausea?
While the diagnosis of functional nausea remains unclear, it is thought to be due to abnormal signaling between the nervous systems of the gut and the brain. There are numerous contributing factors, most notably stress and anxiety which can make the nausea worse.
How is functional nausea treated?
There is not a standard treatment for functional nausea. Your child’s health care team will create a treatment plan based on your child’s specific symptoms. Treatment options may include:
- Relaxation exercises or behavioral therapy to help reduce stress or anxiety
- Medicines, such as specific antihistamines and antidepressants, to help improve signaling between nervous systems
- Medicines to improve nausea