Does smelling alcohol help with vomiting?

Question

I felt really nauseous this morning after a long journey, and my friend suggested smelling some alcohol to feel better. I found it a bit strange. Does smelling alcohol actually help with vomiting or nausea?

Kunal Kapoor · Accepted Answer

I had a terrible stomach bug last week and was throwing up constantly. My sister told me to sniff an rubbing alcohol pad from our first-aid kit, and surprisingly it gave me instant relief from that intense nausea. It doesn't cure the stomach issue, but it definitely stops the urge to vomit for a bit.

Rita Fernandes · Answer

Please be very careful with these quick hacks. I tried sniffing various things when I had severe vomiting last year, but it turned out to be a severe gallbladder infection that needed hospitalization. If you are throwing up repeatedly and cannot keep fluids down, please see a doctor immediately.

Amit Shah · Answer

Yes, sniffing isopropyl alcohol swabs actually works really fast to reduce nausea. I use this trick whenever I get motion sickness during long road trips.

Sunidhi Roy · Answer

While there is some clinical research showing isopropyl alcohol vapor can temporarily ease nausea, it is not a permanent solution for vomiting. Inhaling strong chemical fumes can also irritate your lungs if done too much. It is always better to consult a doctor to find the root cause of your vomiting.

Harish Bisht · Answer

I can't speak on the science behind it, but I always keep alcohol wipes in my car glove compartment. Whenever I feel dizzy or nauseous while driving on winding mountain roads, smelling them for a few seconds helps settle my stomach. It is just a quick personal fix that works for me.

Does smelling alcohol help with vomiting?

5 answers

Consult a internal medicine specialist

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