DRY HEAVE Meaning and
Definition
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Dry heave is a term used to describe a reflexive, repetitive, and involuntary respiratory action where a person appears to vomit or retch without producing any actual vomit or stomach contents. Also known as "retching," it involves the contraction and spasms of the abdominal and respiratory muscles, mimicking a vomiting episode, yet resulting in little or no material being expelled.
The sensation typically begins with a strong, nauseous feeling often accompanied by a discomfort or uneasiness in the stomach region. The dry heave reflex is commonly triggered by various factors, such as strong odors, certain foods or drinks, motion sickness, anxiety, stress, or a side effect of medication. It can occur individually or as a precursor to actual vomiting.
While the exact cause of dry heaves may vary, it is thought to be the body's defense mechanism attempting to expel potential toxins or irritants from the digestive system. In some cases, severe and persistent dry heaves can be associated with specific medical conditions like gastroenteritis, gastritis, morning sickness during pregnancy, or even excessive alcohol consumption.
Though dry heaving can be physically and emotionally distressing, it is generally a temporary reaction that subsides once the underlying cause is addressed or removed. Management techniques may include avoiding triggers, deep breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, ginger remedies to ease nausea, or medical interventions like antiemetic medications prescribed by healthcare professionals.
Common Misspellings for DRY HEAVE
Etymology of DRY HEAVE
The word "dry heave" is derived from the combination of "dry" and "heave".
The term "heave" has Old English roots and traces its origins to the Old English word "hebban", meaning "to raise or lift". In Middle English, it evolved to "heven" and later became "heave" in modern English, retaining its original meaning of lifting or raising something forcefully.
The addition of "dry" to "heave" in the term "dry heave" is used to describe the action of forcefully contracting the muscles of the diaphragm and throat without bringing up any vomit or stomach contents. It is called "dry" because the act of vomiting does not produce any liquid or food, akin to a dry retching or dry vomiting motion.
