What does retching involve?

Retching is the action of making efforts to vomit without actually expelling stomach contents. It often serves as a precursor to vomiting, signaling that the body is preparing to eliminate unwanted substances. This involuntary reflex occurs when the diaphragm and abdominal muscles contract, creating a sensation of nausea. While the other choices may describe various digestive issues or behaviors, retching specifically refers to the preparatory phase that can lead to the act of vomiting itself. Understanding this process emphasizes the body's protective mechanisms in response to irritants or toxins in the gastrointestinal tract.