why do i feel like throwing up but i don't

Feeling like throwing up but not actually vomiting is a common experience and can be caused by various factors. The sensation is typically due to nausea, which can occur without vomiting for several reasons including digestive issues (such as indigestion, acid reflux, or upset stomach), low blood sugar from hunger, motion sickness, anxiety or stress, pregnancy, or side effects from medications. In some cases, nausea acts as a warning or discomfort without leading to the physical act of vomiting, as the body may not need to expel anything despite the queasy feeling. Motion sickness occurs when conflicting signals are sent to the brain about movement, causing nausea without vomiting. Emotional stress and anxiety can also disrupt the gut-brain connection, resulting in nausea sensations. Many digestive problems irritate the stomach lining causing nausea without always triggering vomiting. If nausea persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like severe pain or fever, it is important to seek medical advice to rule out more serious conditions.