1. Common Causes
Vomiting is often caused by gastroenteritis more commonly known as stomach flu. Food poisoning also may be a culprit. Some medications may cause vomiting as a side effect such as chemotherapy for cancer treatment. Morning sickness in pregnancy may be caused by an increase in certain hormones and can cause a woman to throw up. Inner ear imbalances and motion sickness can also lead to nausea and vomiting.
2. When Vomiting Can Mean Something Serious
Most people have vomited in their life and it usually does not require a trip to the doctor or hospital. However there are times when vomiting may indicate something serious and a call to the doctor is needed. If vomiting is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen it may be a sign of appendicitis. Vomiting repeatedly in the morning especially accompanied with a headache can be a symptom of a brain tumor. If you or someone you are with starts vomiting after a head injury you should see a doctor immediately. It could be a sign of a brain injury.
3. Make it Stop
If you are experiencing vomiting frequently as a result of pregnancy or as a side effect of medication talk with your doctor who may be able to prescribe medication to prevent and treat vomiting. Things to try at home include sipping ginger teas or sucking on a ginger candy. Ginger capsules are also available. Acupressure wrist bands work for some people. Be sure to follow directions exactly to apply the pressure point to the exact location on the wrists to decrease nausea and prevent vomiting.
4. Avoid Dehydration
A possible consequence of vomiting is dehydration. Young children and infants run a higher risk of developing dehydration than adults. The rate at which a baby becomes dehydrated will vary. It is essential for parents to recognize signs of dehydration in young children. A sunken in soft spot on an infant and a lack of wet diapers may indicate a problem. Sunken eyes, dry lips and fast breathing are additional signs of dehydration. Prevent dehydration by offering a child or infant a few teaspoons of liquid such as an oral electrolyte drink every half hour or so. If a young child has signs of dehydration call your child's doctor.
5. Self Induced Vomiting; Possible Serious Consequences
Although it is very unpleasant, some people intentionally induce vomiting to control weight. Bulimia is an eating disorder which is often associated with binging and vomiting. Repeated vomiting causes several long term health problems including irritation and possible rupture of the esophagus, cavities, stomach ulcers and an electrolyte imbalance which if serious enough can lead to a cardiac arrest. If you or a loved one has bulimia seek professional medical treatment.
