Vomiting is a common indication of sickness in children aged 1 to 5 years, and determining the underlying cause can be challenging. Typically, vomiting is a sign of infection, with young babies, especially those with reflux, being more susceptible to it.
Children, when ill, tend to vomit more than adults, and some are predisposed to it. Fortunately, most children recover swiftly from vomiting episodes or gastrointestinal illnesses.
Common Reasons for Vomiting in Children
- ‘Gastro’ is a prevalent cause of vomiting in children, while infections like colds or urinary tract infections can also trigger vomiting.
- Other factors that can lead to vomiting include food poisoning or allergies, vigorous coughing, diarrhea, fever, and motion sickness.
- In certain instances, vomiting may signal more severe conditions such as appendicitis or an obstruction.
- It’s important to note that dehydration can be a serious consequence of persistent vomiting in children, so it’s crucial to seek medical attention if vomiting persists.
- If your child is experiencing frequent or prolonged episodes of vomiting, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Other signs that a child may be about to vomit include pale skin, sweating, and a quickened heartbeat. It’s important for parents and caregivers to be observant and responsive to these signs in order to provide comfort and assistance to the child.
If a child does vomit, it’s important to keep them hydrated by offering small sips of water or oral rehydration solutions. Avoid giving them solid foods immediately after vomiting, as this can further upset their stomach. If vomiting persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as high fever or severe abdominal pain, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.
Managing Vomiting in Children
Most cases of vomiting in children respond well to gentle home remedies. Adequate hydration is crucial, with breast milk, formula, or oral rehydration solution being suitable options. Encouraging small, frequent fluid intake is more manageable for children compared to less frequent large servings.
Caring for a Vomiting Child
It is advisable to keep your child at home when they are experiencing episodes of vomiting. Supporting their immune system through rest, sleep, and fluids can aid in their recovery.
Preventive Measures
Isolating your child from others and avoiding the sharing of utensils is important. Maintaining high levels of hygiene, including thorough handwashing after cleaning up vomit and using disposable towels and disinfectant, is paramount.
Helpful Tips for Dealing with Vomiting
- Stay calm while addressing vomiting episodes, monitor their fluid intake, and observe the color of their urine for signs of dehydration.
- Avoid administering any medication for vomiting without consulting a healthcare professional.
- Encourage your child to rest, allowing the stomach to empty and minimize the urge to vomit.
- Provide small sips of clear fluids like water, ginger ale, or broth to prevent dehydration.
- Avoid giving your child solid foods until they have stopped vomiting for at least six hours.
- If vomiting persists or is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, fever, or blood in vomit, seek medical attention immediately.
Seeking Medical Assistance
- If your child displays signs of severe illness or significant dehydration, seek immediate medical attention.
Sources:
Raising Children (Vomiting), The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (The vomiting child), Royal Children’s Hospital (Gastroenteritis), Royal Children’s Hospital (Melbourne) (Dehydration)
Last reviewed: September 2022
If your child is experiencing persistent vomiting or diarrhea, is unable to keep fluids down, has a high fever, shows signs of severe pain or confusion, or has sunken eyes and dry mouth, it is important to seek immediate medical help.
Dehydration can be a serious complication of illnesses like gastroenteritis, so it is crucial to monitor your child’s fluid intake and seek medical attention if you notice signs of dehydration.
Additional Information
Babies may regurgitate small amounts of food after feeding, which differs from vomiting.
Viral gastroenteritis is the most common cause of vomiting in children.
Severe vomiting may lead to dehydration in babies or children.
It is common to seek medical attention for a child experiencing vomiting.
For hydration, offer small amounts of oral rehydration solution or plain water to your child.
Other common causes of vomiting in children include food poisoning, motion sickness, infections, medication side effects, and stomach flu.
If a child is vomiting, it is essential to monitor their hydration levels closely. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, sunken eyes, decreased urine output, and lethargy.
To prevent dehydration, offer small sips of water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear fluids. Avoid giving dairy products, fatty foods, and sugary drinks as they can worsen vomiting.
If vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, is accompanied by high fever or severe abdominal pain, or if the child shows signs of dehydration, seek medical attention immediately.
Remember, vomiting can be a normal part of childhood illnesses, but it is essential to take necessary precautions to ensure the child’s well-being.
- Other signs and symptoms that may accompany vomiting in children include fever, abdominal pain, headache, and fatigue.
- Dehydration is a common concern with vomiting, so it is important to monitor children for signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, decreased urine output, and lethargy.
- If vomiting is persistent, contains blood, is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, or is associated with a head injury, seek medical attention immediately.
It is important to note that vomiting can be caused by various factors such as infections, food poisoning, motion sickness, or underlying medical conditions. If you are unsure about the cause of vomiting or if it persists, consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
Exploring Causes of Vomiting in Children
Aside from infections, children may vomit due to severe conditions with lasting effects.
Possible causes of vomiting in children include:
- gastroenteritis
- food poisoning
- poisoning
- COVID-19
- urinary tract infections
Understanding Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis, a common stomach bug, results from an infection in the digestive system, usually viral but occasionally bacterial.
Characteristic symptoms of gastroenteritis include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain, with its highly contagious nature, particularly among children.
Young children and infants face a higher dehydration risk from gastroenteritis. If a baby under six months exhibits gastroenteritis symptoms, seek medical advice.
The rotavirus is a prevalent cause of severe gastroenteritis in babies, who can receive a vaccine against this virus as part of preventive measures.
Older children are more commonly affected by norovirus-induced gastroenteritis.
Exploring Food Poisoning
Food poisoning stems from germs thriving in improperly prepared or stored food, manifesting symptoms akin to gastroenteritis but typically more severe.
Babies and young children are vulnerable to dehydration; thus, maintaining adequate hydration is crucial.
Handling Poisoning Incidents
If ingestion of a poisonous substance is suspected or an overdose is observed, contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 for guidance (24 hours).
Poisoning incidents are frequent among young children who tend to explore items by placing them in their mouths.
Multiple household items can be toxic if ingested, with symptoms including:
- nausea and vomiting
- drowsiness
- breathing difficulties
Avoid inducing vomiting in the child unless instructed by a medical professional.
Exploring Urinary Tract Infections
Vomiting can signal a urinary tract infection (UTI) in children, a common occurrence accompanied by symptoms such as:
- fever
- irritability
- painful urination
- reduced urination frequency
- strong-smelling urine
Examining COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms in children may comprise:
- cough
- fever
- runny nose
- shortness of breath
- diarrhea
- nausea and vomiting
Understanding Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is more prevalent in older children, often triggered by travel situations.
Virtual reality games and amusement park rides can also induce motion sickness.
Recognizing Appendicitis
Appendicitis constitutes a medical emergency. If appendicitis is suspected, immediate medical attention at a hospital or doctor’s office is imperative to prevent life-threatening complications from a burst appendix.
Appendicitis typically manifests as pain around the navel that shifts to the lower right abdomen and intensifies over time.
A child with appendicitis may experience:
- worsening abdominal pain
- loss of appetite
- vomiting
- discomfort when sitting or standing
- pain during movement
Considering Meningitis
If symptoms of meningitis are suspected, dial triple zero (000) immediately for an ambulance or proceed directly to the emergency department.
Meningitis, characterized by inflammation of the membrane covering the brain and spinal cord due to bacterial or viral infections, though rare, necessitates urgent medical intervention as it can swiftly lead to fatality.
Meningitis may present symptoms like:
- vomiting
- fever
- headache
- stiff neck
- light sensitivity
- distinctive skin rash
Infants with meningitis may exhibit irritability, a high-pitched cry, arching of the back, and swelling of the soft spot on their head.
Understanding Diabetic Ketoacidosis
In cases of suspected diabetic ketoacidosis, bring the child to the emergency department if vomiting and dehydration are evident.
Diabetic ketoacidosis may serve as the initial sign of diabetes in a child, characterized by the body’s reliance on fat breakdown due to insufficient insulin levels, leading to ketone production and resultant acidity (ketoacidosis).
Symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis include:
- dehydration
- vomiting
- rapid breathing
- fatigue
Increased thirst and urination may also be observed.
Addressing Severe Allergic Reactions
In cases of severe allergic responses, contact triple zero (000) for emergency medical aid.
Food allergies are more commonplace in infants, and severe reactions can escalate to anaphylaxis, featuring symptoms like:
- breathing difficulties
- throat swelling
- wheezing
- collapse
Cow’s milk allergy is an example of a food intolerance that can provoke vomiting in young children.
Exploring Other Causes of Vomiting
- intussusception (intestinal blockage)
- pyloric stenosis (narrowing of the valve between the stomach and small intestine)
- increased intracranial pressure
Next Steps
If your child is experiencing frequent vomiting episodes, it’s important to monitor their hydration levels closely. Encourage them to take small sips of water or an oral rehydration solution to prevent dehydration.
Keep track of any triggers or patterns that may be associated with the vomiting episodes. This information can be helpful for your doctor in determining the cause of the problem.
In some cases, dietary changes or medication may be recommended to help manage the vomiting episodes. Follow your doctor’s advice closely and don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if necessary.
Remember, early intervention and proper medical care are key to addressing and managing any underlying issues causing your child’s vomiting. Don’t delay in seeking help if you have concerns about your child’s health.
When should I take my child to the doctor?
If babies under 6 months of age experience vomiting or gastroenteritis, seek medical attention from a doctor.
If a child with diabetes or epilepsy vomits, it is essential to consult a doctor.
When should I get urgent medical care for my child?
Vomiting poses a greater risk to young babies. Know when to seek medical attention for vomiting:
- All babies under 6 months old or weighing less than 8kg.
- Children under 3 years vomiting for 12 hours.
- Children under 6 years vomiting for 24 hours.
- Children 6 years or older vomiting for 48 hours.
If your child vomits and displays any of these symptoms, immediately go to the emergency department at the nearest hospital:
- blood in vomit
- green or brown vomit
- prolonged or uncontrollable vomiting
- inability to keep fluids down
- severe abdominal or rectal pain
- symptoms of stiff neck
- high temperature (above 38.5°C)
- signs of dehydration: less wet nappies, darker urine, dry lips
- For breastfed babies, ensure frequent feeding and provide oral rehydration solution or water initially.
- Bottle-fed babies should receive oral rehydration solution for the first 12 hours before gradually transitioning back to regular formula.
- Ensure the child gets enough rest.
- Encourage small, frequent intake of clear fluids.
- Always use oral rehydration solutions for persistent diarrhea or vomiting.
- Avoid offering sports drinks, lemonade, or cordial. Stick to plain foods initially if the child refuses to eat.
- Ensure the child gets adequate rest.
- Use appropriate medications for controlling motion sickness.
- Bacterial infections may require antibiotics.
- Meningitis necessitates hospital treatment, as viral forms do not respond to antibiotics.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis requires close monitoring in a hospital setting.
- Surgical intervention may be necessary for digestive tract blockages.
- Washing hands before meals and after using the toilet
- Following good food safety practices
- Wearing gloves when cleaning vomit or diarrhea
- Keeping children at home until 24 hours after the last episode of vomiting
- Less than 4 wet nappies daily for infants
- Dry mouth, tongue, or lips
- Sunken eyes
- Listlessness or irritability
- Reduced tears when crying
- Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne – Kids’ health information
- Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network – Fact sheets
- Causes of vomiting
- Vomiting symptoms
- Gastroenteritis
- Abdominal Pain
- Nausea
- Possible causes of vomiting
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How is vomiting treated in children?
Typical vomiting in children is often caused by viral gastroenteritis, which can usually be managed at home.
If a child is dehydrated or under six months old, it is advisable to visit a doctor.
Self-care at home
Vomiting frequently resolves without medical intervention; focus on maintaining hydration levels.
Replace lost minerals with oral rehydration solution readily available from stores.
Most cases of viral gastroenteritis improve within 1-2 days, but diarrhea may persist.
Tips for caring for infants and children over six months:
Recommendations for older children:
Keep the child at home until 24 hours after the last bowel movement.
If the child’s condition does not improve, consult a healthcare professional.
Medicines for vomiting in children
Generally, antivomiting medications are not recommended for children without medical advice.
Oral rehydration solution available from pharmacies can be beneficial.
Seeking medication? – Use the Medicines information search tool to find by brand or active ingredient.
Other ways that vomiting in children can be treated
Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause of vomiting:
Can vomiting in children be prevented?
The primary cause of vomiting in children is often gastroenteritis, which is highly contagious among children.
Prevent the spread of gastroenteritis by:
Consult a doctor or dietitian for vomiting related to specific foods.
Vaccines are available to prevent certain causes such as rotavirus or meningitis.
It is also important to ensure children stay hydrated during illness to prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate vomiting. Encourage small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solutions.
Additionally, promoting overall good hygiene habits, such as teaching children to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing, can help prevent the spread of illnesses that may lead to vomiting.
Complications of vomiting in children
Prevent dehydration due to vomiting by ensuring the child gets enough fluids.
Severe dehydration in babies requires immediate attention.
Signs of severe dehydration include:
Severely dehydrated children may need hospitalization for rehydration through a nasogastric tube or intravenous fluids.
Resources and support
For additional assistance, visit the following resources:
Explore symptoms of food allergies at Nip allergies in the Bub and contact healthdirect at 1800 022 222 for childcare advice.
Pregnancy, Birth, and Baby provide various resources. Visit Who can I call for information and advice?
Sources:
Last reviewed: February 2024
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Dehydration & fluid loss: children & teens | Raising Children Network
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