AROMA-NT: Essential Oils and Wearable TENS Device for Chronic Nausea

Chronic nausea is a complex symptom that may be influenced by multiple factors, including anxiety, stress, sleep disturbance, pain, autonomic nervous system function, and bowel-related symptoms. Although inhaled essential oil products and wearable transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) devices are used by individuals experiencing nausea, the mechanisms through which these interventions may affect nausea and related symptoms are not well understood.

The primary purpose of this prospective study is to investigate the mechanisms by which inhaled essential oils and a wearable TENS device influence nausea in adults with chronic nausea and anxiety. Rather than evaluating treatment efficacy, the study is designed to examine whether use of these interventions is associated with changes in potential contributors to nausea, including anxiety, stress, sleep disturbance, pain, autonomic symptoms, and bowel-related symptoms.

Participants will complete a 2-week baseline assessment period followed by a 12-week inhaled essential oil phase and a 12-week wearable TENS device phase. Throughout the study, participants will complete patient-reported assessments of nausea and related symptoms. Changes in symptom domains during the intervention periods will be compared with baseline measurements to identify potential pathways through which these interventions may influence the experience of chronic nausea.

A secondary objective is to evaluate the relationship between changes in nausea severity and changes in fatigue, appetite, and quality of life. Findings from this study are expected to improve understanding of the biological and symptom-based factors associated with chronic nausea and to provide insight into how inhaled essential oils and wearable TENS therapy may affect these factors.

Inclusion criteria

Age 18 years or older. Chronic nausea for more than 6 months. Nausea on 3 or more days during the previous week. Severe or very severe nausea. At least moderate anxiety as defined by a Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) score of 10 or greater.

Able to read and understand English. Willing and able to complete study procedures and questionnaires

Exclusion criteria

Currently receiving treatment for cancer. Decompensated cirrhosis, including cirrhosis with ascites, variceal bleeding, or hepatic encephalopathy.

Currently receiving dialysis. Gastrointestinal surgery within the previous 3 months. Stroke within the previous 3 months. Currently pregnant (self-reported). Symptoms consistent with carpal tunnel syndrome based on the Kamath-Stothard questionnaire.

Inflammation, irritation, infection, or other significant skin disease near the wrist at the intended site of ReliefBand application.

Latex allergy, due to natural rubber latex contained in the ReliefBand wrist strap