When children start experiencing symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, it could be a result of various factors such as food poisoning or stomach flu. So, when is it necessary to seek emergency care for your child?

If your child has a mild fever and vomits just once, it is advised to contact a doctor and schedule an appointment for the next day.

If your child is vomiting and has these symptoms, emergency care may be necessary.

If your child is vomiting persistently and shows symptoms like lethargy, high fever, or continuous vomiting, it might be crucial to visit the emergency room. Seek immediate care if your child is under 3 months old, experiencing reduced urination, or has a fever.

• Continuous vomiting
• Lethargy
• High fever

If your child has diarrhea and has these symptoms, emergency care may be necessary.

If your child is having diarrhea along with signs of blood, dry mouth, or high fever, it is recommended to consider seeking emergency care.

• Blood in diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• High fever

Wesley EmergencyCare Network ERs

Online ER check-in

Wesley’s emergency rooms offer advanced check-in services through a mobile app available for both Apple and Android devices. By completing the registration process, the ER can be prepared for your arrival and provide information on average wait times.

ER average wait times

It’s important to note that ER wait times are approximate and for informational purposes only. In case of a medical emergency, always dial 911 for immediate assistance. Triage in the ER is conducted based on priority.

Ready Care

The emergency department at Wesley’s provides Ready Care services for prompt treatment of minor emergencies. Supervised by board-certified physicians, this service ensures quick and convenient care for patients.

In case of a medical emergency, contact 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

healthdirect Australia offers a service allowing you to consult with a nurse or doctor for guidance and advice.

Vomiting in children can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, food poisoning, motion sickness, or even stress. It is important to monitor the child’s symptoms and seek medical attention if the vomiting is persistent, accompanied by fever, or if the child is showing signs of dehydration.

Key facts

• Children may experience vomiting due to different causes such as viral gastroenteritis or food poisoning.
• Ensure your child stays hydrated by providing oral rehydration solution or water.
• If your child continues to vomit or shows signs of dehydration, contact a healthcare provider for further advice.
• Avoid giving your child solid foods until vomiting has stopped for at least a few hours to allow the stomach to settle.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms closely and seek medical attention if vomiting persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

What is vomiting?

Vomiting in children is a common symptom that may necessitate medical attention, as children are at risk of dehydration during vomiting episodes.

In addition to vomiting, children may also experience symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, and lethargy. It is important to monitor the frequency and duration of vomiting, as well as any other accompanying symptoms, to determine the underlying cause.

If a child is experiencing persistent vomiting, dehydration may occur, so it is crucial to ensure they are receiving adequate fluids. If vomiting is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Parents should also pay attention to any triggers that may be causing the vomiting, such as certain foods or environmental factors. Keeping a journal of when the vomiting episodes occur and any potential triggers can help in identifying the cause and seeking appropriate treatment.

What causes vomiting in children?

Infections or severe underlying causes such as food poisoning or COVID-19 could be triggering vomiting in children.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, a common cause of vomiting in children, can lead to dehydration. It is recommended to get vaccinated against rotavirus.

Food poisoning

Food poisoning can result in more severe vomiting than gastroenteritis. Be vigilant for signs of dehydration in children.

Poisoning

If you suspect poisoning, contact the Poisons Information Centre. Some household items can be toxic if swallowed, causing symptoms like nausea and drowsiness.

Urinary tract infections

Vomiting could indicate a urinary tract infection in children, along with symptoms like fever and painful urination.

COVID-19

COVID-19 symptoms in children include cough, fever, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

Motion sickness

Older children often experience motion sickness while traveling or engaging in activities like virtual reality games.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is a medical emergency characterized by intense abdominal pain. If appendicitis is suspected, immediate medical attention is required.

Meningitis

If a baby or child exhibits symptoms of meningitis, call an ambulance or head straight to the emergency room.

Meningitis is an infection causing inflammation of the membrane covering the brain and spinal cord, often triggered by bacteria or viruses, which can be fatal.

Common signs of meningitis include:

• Vomiting
• Fever
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Sensitivity to bright lights (photophobia)
• Distinctive skin rash

Babies with meningitis may display irritability, high-pitched crying, arching their back, bulging fontanelle, and other symptoms.

Diabetic ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency. If a child is vomiting and dehydrated, seek immediate medical help.

Diabetic ketoacidosis can indicate the onset of diabetes, characterized by the body breaking down fat instead of glucose for energy, leading to a toxic buildup. Symptoms include dehydration, rapid breathing, fatigue, increased thirst, and urination.

Food allergy

If a severe allergic reaction is suspected, call for emergency assistance.

Food allergies are more common in infants when introducing new foods and can result in anaphylaxis, with symptoms such as breathing difficulties, throat swelling, wheezing, and collapse. Cow’s milk is a common allergen causing vomiting.

Other acute medical conditions

• Intussusception (intestinal blockage)
• Pyloric stenosis (narrowing of stomach valve)
• Increased intracranial pressure (cranial pressure)

How is the cause of vomiting diagnosed in children?

For the diagnosis of chronic vomiting, a doctor will consider symptoms, signs of dehydration, and may refer to a specialist like a gastroenterologist. In addition to a physical examination and medical history, the following diagnostic tests may be performed:

• Blood tests to check for infections or other underlying issues
• Urinalysis to rule out urinary tract infections
• Stool studies to check for parasites or infections
• Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans to look for any abnormalities in the digestive system
• Endoscopy to visually inspect the inside of the digestive tract

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the specific cause of vomiting and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

When should I take my child to the doctor?

Children under 6 months or those with underlying health conditions like diabetes should seek medical attention for vomiting. Early medical care for infants and at-risk children is crucial.

When should I get urgent medical care for my child?

Guidelines for seeking medical care for vomiting include:

• Age under 6 months or weight less than 8kg
• Children under 3 years vomiting for 12 hours
• Children under 6 years vomiting for 24 hours
• Aged 6 years or above vomiting for 48 hours

Emergency care is necessary for vomiting accompanied by specific symptoms like blood, green/brown vomit, severe pain, or other indicators.

Find a health service for immediate assistance.

It’s important to monitor your child’s condition closely and seek medical attention if you have any concerns about their health. If your child is experiencing persistent vomiting, high fever, dehydration, or other worrisome symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider for guidance.

How is vomiting treated in children?

Common viral gastroenteritis causing vomiting can often be managed at home, but medical help should be sought for dehydrated or young children.

Self-care at home

Focus on hydration and offer oral rehydration solution for viral gastroenteritis. Rest and monitor the symptoms to ensure recovery.

• For breastfed babies, continue breastfeeding more frequently and provide oral rehydration solution.
• Replace formula with oral rehydration solution for bottle-fed babies, followed by small amounts of formula.
• Older children should drink clear fluids regularly, avoid sugary drinks, and rest.

If concerned about the lack of improvement, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Medicines for vomiting in children

Avoid using anti-vomiting medications without professional advice. Oral rehydration solution is recommended for adequate hydration.

Looking for a medicine? Use the Medicines information tool to find suitable remedies.

Other ways that vomiting in children can be treated

Treatment for vomiting depends on the cause — whether it’s motion sickness, infections, meningitis, diabetic ketoacidosis, or surgical interventions.

• Preventive or treatment measures may include motion sickness medications, antibiotics for infections, and hospitalization for severe cases.

Can vomiting in children be prevented?

Prevent the spread of gastroenteritis and vomiting by maintaining good hygiene practices, ensuring food safety, and opting for vaccination where applicable.

If specific foods trigger vomiting, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Complications of vomiting in children

Monitor fluid intake to prevent dehydration, especially in infants and young children. Signs of severe dehydration require immediate medical attention.

• Promptly address dehydration and ensure sufficient fluid intake to prevent serious complications in children.

If your child becomes dehydrated, they may require hospital care for rehydration, with fluids administered via a nasogastric tube or intravenously through a drip.

Resources and support

For additional information and support, explore these resources:

• The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne — Kids’ health information.
• The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network — Fact sheets.

Discover more about food allergy symptoms at Nip allergies in the Bub.

If you need advice for your child, contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak with a registered nurse, available 24/7.

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby provides a valuable list of resources. Visit Who can I call for information and advice?

Source:

Last reviewed: February 2024

Related pages

• Possible underlying causes of vomiting
• Vomiting as a symptom

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• Gastroenteritis
• Abdominal Pain
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Explore more information on this subject through trusted information partners.

Gastroenteritis factsheet | The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as gastro, is prevalent in infants and children, leading to abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Find out more on Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network website

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