What’s Causing My Back Pain and Nausea?

What Are Back Pain and Nausea?

Back pain is a frequent complaint and can present with different intensities and characteristics. It might feel sharp and stabbing or more dull and throbbing. Because the spine and surrounding structures serve as the body’s primary support and stabilization system, they are susceptible to strain and injury.

Nausea describes the sensation of wanting to vomit.

What causes back pain and nausea?

Back pain and nausea commonly happen together. Often, discomfort stemming from gastrointestinal or abdominal problems can radiate toward the back. For example, biliary colic — when gallstones block the bile ducts — can produce pain that travels to the back.

Pregnancy-related morning sickness can produce marked nausea. Back discomfort is also frequent during pregnancy because the increasing weight of the fetus stresses the spine and supporting muscles. These symptoms are usually not worrisome during pregnancy, but if nausea persists beyond the first trimester it could signal preeclampsia, a disorder characterized by elevated blood pressure. Pregnant individuals who continue to feel nauseous into their second trimester should consult a healthcare provider.

Other conditions that may produce both back pain and nausea include:

• appendicitis
• chronic pancreatitis
• endometriosis
• gallstones
• kidney stones
• kidney cyst
• menstrual cramps

When to seek medical help

If your nausea and back pain do not improve within 24 hours or your back pain occurs without a clear injury, schedule an appointment with your physician. Get immediate medical care if your back pain and nausea are accompanied by any of the following:

• confusion
• severe general weakness
• pain that begins on the right side and moves to the back, which may indicate appendicitis or biliary colic
• pain that evolves into weakness or numbness radiating down one or both legs
• painful or difficult urination
• blood in the urine
• shortness of breath
• worsening symptoms

Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if your back pain persists for more than two weeks after the nausea has resolved.

This overview is informational. Seek urgent medical attention if you believe you need emergency care.

How are back pain and nausea treated?

Treatment for back pain and nausea targets the root cause. Antiemetic medications can relieve the immediate feeling of nausea. Examples include dolasetron (Anzemet) and granisetron (Granisol); both are considered options during pregnancy. If back pain does not improve with rest and initial medical measures, your doctor may investigate for a more significant injury.

Home care

Nonprescription pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can ease back discomfort, especially when it’s related to menstrual cramps, though they may sometimes worsen nausea.

Although solid foods might be unappealing when you’re nauseous, sipping small amounts of water or clear fluids, such as ginger ale or an electrolyte drink, helps maintain hydration. Consuming several small portions of bland items like crackers, clear broth, and gelatin may also calm the stomach.

Resting your back is an important part of recovery. Apply a cloth-covered ice pack for 10 minutes at a time during the first three days after pain starts. After 72 hours, switching to heat may be beneficial.

How can I prevent back pain and nausea?

While it isn’t always possible to prevent nausea and back pain, maintaining a nutritious diet and limiting excessive alcohol intake can reduce the risk of certain triggers, such as indigestion.