Vomiting
Most people are familiar with the sensation of vomiting. But what causes this symptom? There is a complex interaction between various systems in the body that regulate vomiting.
One theory behind why people vomit is called the low CO2 theory. This theory states that vomiting occurs when the concentration of CO2 in the blood falls below a certain level. This drop in CO2 levels triggers a cascade of events that ultimately leads to vomiting.
When CO2 levels fall, it causes a decrease in blood pH. This decrease in pH activates receptors in the brain that stimulate the vomiting center. The vomiting center then sends signals to the stomach muscles to contract and expel contents through the mouth. Low CO2 levels also stimulate other nerves, which leads to an increased production of saliva, which can further contribute to nausea and vomiting. Deep breathing may help alleviate vomiting and other symptoms for individuals feeling nauseous by relieving excess carbon dioxide and increasing blood pH.
