Feeling Nauseous When Breathing Deeply or Tightening Abdomen: Causes and Solutions

Q: Feeling Nauseous When Breathing Deeply or Tightening Abdomen: Causes and Solutions

Hello： If discomfort is caused by a change in posture, it is advisable to minimize stretching movements. <br>If you need to stretch your chest, you can do so gradually; there is no need to achieve the position immediately, as changes in posture can lead to gastrointestinal pressu

Feeling nauseous when taking deep breaths or tightening the abdomen?

Hello Doctor: First of all, I am not pregnant, and this issue does not occur at specific times; rather, it happens whenever I engage in activities that involve tightening my abdomen or deep breathing, which creates a sensation of nausea.
If I remain in that state for an extended period, I may actually vomit.
My posture is somewhat poor because when I try to lift my head and "straighten my chest," it requires abdominal effort, which makes me uncomfortable (nauseous).
Therefore, I tend to slouch most of the time, as this position is more comfortable for me.
I want to correct this bad habit over time, but I don't know how to address the issue.
I have read online, but most cases similar to mine involve postpartum women, where the child exerts pressure on the abdomen.
However, I do not have an overweight body type; I am about 1.6 meters tall and weigh around 47 kilograms.
I do not exercise regularly, and when I do, it is sometimes accompanied by pain and a desire to vomit.
Doing sit-ups may be problematic due to poor posture (I have seen related issues), which could be causing dizziness and nausea due to cervical spine issues.
I also struggle to drink 2000 cc of water.
Could you please help me understand what might be causing these symptoms? If I need to see a doctor, should I consult a gastroenterologist?

Shan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/20

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If discomfort is caused by a change in posture, it is advisable to minimize stretching movements.
If you need to stretch your chest, you can do so gradually; there is no need to achieve the position immediately, as changes in posture can lead to gastrointestinal pressure.
If medical attention is required, you may consult a gastroenterologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2017/11/20

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing quite a challenging situation with your breathing and abdominal discomfort. Based on your description, it seems that deep breathing or tightening your abdomen triggers a nauseous feeling, which can be quite distressing. Let's break down some potential causes and solutions for your symptoms.

Possible Causes
1. Muscle Tension and Posture: Poor posture, such as slouching or hunching over, can lead to muscle tension in the abdomen and diaphragm. When you attempt to breathe deeply or tighten your abdomen, the tension can create discomfort and a feeling of nausea. This is often exacerbated by the effort to maintain a "straight" posture, which may engage your abdominal muscles more than you're used to.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): If you're experiencing nausea when tightening your abdomen, it could be related to acid reflux. When the abdominal muscles contract, they can push stomach contents back up into the esophagus, leading to feelings of nausea. This is particularly relevant if you have a history of digestive issues.

3. Anxiety and Stress: Anxiety can manifest physically in various ways, including nausea and discomfort during deep breathing. If you find yourself feeling anxious about your posture or breathing, this could contribute to your symptoms.

4. Diaphragmatic Dysfunction: The diaphragm is the primary muscle used in breathing. If it's not functioning optimally due to tension or poor posture, it can lead to shallow breathing and discomfort when trying to take deep breaths.

5. Abdominal Pressure: Tightening your abdomen can create pressure on your stomach and intestines, which might lead to nausea, especially if there is any underlying gastrointestinal sensitivity.

Recommendations
1. Posture Correction: Work on improving your posture gradually. Consider consulting a physical therapist who can provide exercises to strengthen your core and back muscles, which can help you maintain a better posture without straining.

2. Breathing Exercises: Practice diaphragmatic breathing, which involves breathing deeply into your diaphragm rather than your chest. This can help reduce tension and improve your overall breathing pattern. Techniques such as pursed-lip breathing or using a straw to breathe can also help regulate your breathing.

3. Dietary Adjustments: If you suspect GERD, try to avoid foods that trigger your symptoms, such as spicy or acidic foods. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help reduce pressure on your stomach.

4. Stress Management: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation into your routine. These practices can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall sense of well-being.

5. Consult a Specialist: Given your symptoms, it may be beneficial to see a gastroenterologist to rule out any underlying gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, if anxiety is a significant concern, a mental health professional could provide strategies to manage stress and anxiety effectively.

6. Physical Activity: Engage in gentle physical activities, such as walking or swimming, which can help improve your overall fitness without putting excessive strain on your body. Avoid high-impact exercises until you feel more comfortable with your breathing.

Conclusion
It's essential to listen to your body and seek professional guidance if your symptoms persist or worsen. By addressing posture, breathing techniques, and potential gastrointestinal issues, you can work towards alleviating your discomfort. Remember, gradual changes are often the most sustainable, so take your time in implementing these strategies. If you have further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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