Question

Like some people with ME/CFS, I have problems with feeling sick at times but no actual vomiting. I appreciate from social media discussions on this subject that feeling sick can have various causes and my GP has been very good at ruling these out. I don’t like using drugs for this problem – mainly because the ones I have tried don’t seem to work and they also have side-effects. Do you have any other suggestions that might be worth trying.

Answer

There are some very simple self-help and natural measures that may help with nausea (feeling sick).

These include ginger (ginger ale, fresh ginger, ginger cookies), peppermint (chewing gum or tea) and avoiding large meals and tight clothing.

In addition, it may be worth trying an approach known as acupressure. This involves continuous stimulation of an acupuncture point called PC6 which is found on the inner wrist.

Acupressure is something that has been used in Chinese medicine for many years and there is some evidence in the case of migraine-associated nausea that it can help. Acupressure also appears to be of value in nausea associated with pregnancy, travel sickness, surgery and chemotherapy. The theory behind acupressure is that it causes the nervous system to release chemicals that help to control feelings of sickness.

There is a commercial acupressure product called Sea-Bands. This is supposed to work within a few minutes of being applied and can be worn as long as required.

• Please let us know if you have tried using acupressure for sickness, or have any other nondrug tips for nausea. You can email feedback@meassociation.org.uk