Vomiting is symptomatic of a variety of conditions, according to the Cleveland Clinic. It can be an indication of something as simple as the stomach flu, or a sign of a more serious condition such as a heart attack. Knowing when to see a doctor is key to proper diagnosis and treatment.
Stomach Flu
The stomach flu is one of the most common causes of vomiting, affecting both children and adults. It is also one of the least serious. The University of Michigan Health System defines the stomach flu as a viral infection of both the stomach and small intestine, lasting between 1 and 3 days. It is spread by direct contact with an infected person, such as eating or drinking from the same utensils, kissing or touching their hands. The best treatment is to eat nothing for the first couple of days. Limit your drinks to clear liquids, and then slowly reintroduce bland foods such as crackers and toast once you are able to hold down liquids.
Other symptoms that accompany vomiting include nausea, stomach cramps, mild fever and loss of appetite. If these do not improve after 3 days, you should seek medical care.
Morning Sickness
For women, morning sickness is a common cause of vomiting. The Cleveland Clinic estimates that 25 to 55 percent of pregnant women experience vomiting, especially during their first trimester. It's name is a bit misleading though, as morning sickness can occur at any time of the day or night. If you have not visited your doctor, and are experiencing other early symptoms of pregnancy along with vomiting such as tender breasts, fatigue or a delayed menstrual cycle, taking a home pregnancy test is in your best interest.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning occurs when you eat food contaminated with organisms or toxins. The most common culprits are the bacteria Staphylococcus and E. coli. Food poisoning can affect just one person or a whole group of people, and commonly occurs at large social gatherings or in school cafeterias. It is a result of eating undercooked meats, or dairy products and mayonnaise that have been left unrefrigerated for a long period of time.
Depending on the cause of the food poisoning, the symptoms may begin within 2 to 6 hours after eating the contaminated food. Additional symptoms include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, headaches and fever. Medical attention should be sought immediately; after treatment, most people recover within 2 days.
Heart Attack
Vomiting can be a sign of a more serious condition such as a heart attack. As stated by the Mayo Clinic, the signs of a heart attack can vary greatly according to each person; while one may be in excruciating pain, another may experience only mild discomfort.
Vomiting is a symptom not many associate with a heart attack, but is one that should not be ignored, especially when accompanied with other symptoms. These include chest pain or discomfort that may either come and go, or last for a few moments; pain that extends beyond your chest to your jaw, neck, shoulders or arms; feeling short of breath and profuse sweating. In most cases, these symptoms will begin suddenly; should you experience any of these in conjunction with vomiting, seek emergency medical attention.
