Vomiting

Overview

Vomiting is the forceful emptying of the stomach through the mouth. A single episode often settles on its own, but repeated or persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration and may signal a more serious cause. This page covers vomiting as a symptom; Nausea is covered separately, as the two often occur together but can arise independently.

Common causes

• Gastroenteritis and food poisoning.
• Gastritis, acid reflux and indigestion.
• Medicines and treatments.
• Motion sickness and migraine.
• Pregnancy.
• Severe abdominal conditions such as appendicitis or bowel obstruction.
• Conditions outside the gut, including high blood sugar or kidney problems.

Dehydration — the key concern

The main short-term risk of repeated vomiting is dehydration, especially in children, older adults and people with other conditions. Signs include dizziness, dry mouth, reduced urine output, dark urine and weakness. Taking small, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration solution is important; if fluids cannot be kept down at all, prompt medical care is needed.

Evaluation and management

Evaluation reviews the frequency and content of vomiting, any pain, fever or diarrhoea, and medicine use. Management treats the underlying cause and maintains hydration — usually with oral fluids, and with anti-sickness medicines when appropriate. Severe dehydration or a serious underlying cause may need hospital treatment with intravenous fluids.

Warning signs — seek urgent care

• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds — emergency.
• Persistent vomiting with dehydration (dizziness, reduced urine, dry mouth).
• Vomiting with severe abdominal pain — possible appendicitis or obstruction.
• Vomiting with high fever or a stiff neck.
• Vomiting after a head injury.
• Inability to keep any fluids down for many hours.

How we help

Dr. Nayak identifies the cause of vomiting, manages hydration, and treats the underlying condition — directing emergency cases to hospital. Consultations are available in-clinic in Bhubaneswar and over teleconsultation.

Related conditions and patient concerns

• Nausea
• Acute Gastroenteritis
• Food Poisoning
• Gastritis
• Abdominal Pain
• Diabetes & Metabolic Health