Understanding Nausea and Vomiting

19 September, 2025 Doctor Pediatrician 1 category

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The sensation of queasiness or the urge to vomit is known as nausea, while throwing up involves expelling stomach contents through the mouth or nose. The brain and gut control both responses.

Nausea can be triggered by various factors such as motion sickness, pregnancy, food poisoning, infections, or even emotional stress. It is a common symptom that can be uncomfortable and debilitating.

When feeling nauseous, it is important to take slow, deep breaths and stay hydrated. Ginger, peppermint, and crackers are known to help alleviate nausea. If nausea persists or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

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Nausea is a prevalent symptom that nearly everyone experiences. Some common causes include gastrointestinal issues like GORD and ulcers, metabolic conditions like diabetes, and kidney stones.

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Conditions such as appendicitis, pancreatitis, kidney stones, gallstones, and liver disease can lead to intense stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting, necessitating urgent medical attention.

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If persistent and severe vomiting occurs, it may indicate a bowel obstruction or increased brain pressure, indicating serious conditions requiring immediate medical intervention.

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If vomiting persists for over 48 hours, is accompanied by other symptoms, or leads to dehydration, seeking prompt medical advice is essential.

It is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration when experiencing persistent vomiting. Clear liquids such as water, sports drinks, and electrolyte solutions can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.

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To alleviate nausea, avoid triggers, stay hydrated, and consider rehydration beverages. For motion sickness, simple strategies like fresh air and changing positions may be helpful.

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Persistent nausea and vomiting can have severe health consequences, so it is crucial to seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

Mallory-Weiss tears from oesophageal lining tears can result in bleeding, with blood appearing in vomit. Recurrent vomiting can cause inflammation of the stomach and oesophagus.

Vomiting while unconscious, such as after excessive alcohol consumption, can be risky as it can lead to stomach contents entering the airway and lungs, causing breathing obstruction or severe lung inflammation.

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Key guidelines consist of NICE Clinical Guideline, Cochrane Database Syst Rev, and recommendations for managing hyperemesis gravidarum, norovirus outbreaks, and motion sickness.
It is important to stay hydrated and replace lost fluids when experiencing persistent vomiting.
In severe cases, intravenous fluids and antiemetic medications may be necessary to control symptoms and prevent complications.
If vomiting is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, dizziness, or signs of dehydration, seek immediate medical attention.

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Next review scheduled: 4 Aug 2027

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Main symptoms include severe nausea episodes, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, and sensitivity to bright lights.

The onset of episodes is similar, spanning hours to days, starting with sweating, nausea, paleness, retching, and vomiting.

Symptoms improve between episodes, lasting from weeks to months until the next occurrence.

Cyclical vomiting syndrome often originates in childhood, improving with age, but can affect adults, especially those without childhood exposure to the condition.

Diagnosis of cyclical vomiting syndrome involves ruling out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as gastrointestinal disorders, migraines, food poisoning, and psychological factors.

Treatment typically involves managing symptoms with anti-nausea medications, fluids to prevent dehydration, and identifying triggers to prevent episodes. In some cases, medications used to treat migraines or acid reflux may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms.

Patients with cyclical vomiting syndrome may benefit from lifestyle changes such as stress management techniques, dietary modifications, and regular sleep patterns to help reduce the frequency and severity of episodes.

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Signs necessitating medical attention include persistent vomiting, decreased fluid intake, and symptoms in children under 5 years of age.

Contact 111 for assistance or seek immediate help if concerning symptoms arise.

Other warning signs that may require medical attention include severe abdominal pain, persistent fever, difficulty breathing, and sudden change in mental status.

It is important to seek medical help promptly if you experience any of these symptoms or if you are concerned about your health.

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Severe symptoms like bloody or green vomit, eye pain, stiff neck, severe headaches or abdominal pain, breathing difficulties, confusion, or blue skin require urgent medical attention.

Do not drive yourself to the hospital; instead, call emergency services or have someone drive you there.

Ensure to have your medications with you.

If you are experiencing any of these severe symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical help immediately. It is important to prioritize your health and well-being in these situations.

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Preventing and managing cyclical vomiting episodes involves identifying triggers, adhering to prescribed medications, resting in a quiet environment, and staying hydrated during and following vomiting episodes. It is also important to work closely with healthcare providers to develop an individualized plan for managing the condition. In some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy or stress management techniques may be helpful in reducing the frequency and severity of episodes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can also play a role in preventing cyclical vomiting episodes. Remember to seek medical attention if vomiting episodes become prolonged or severe.

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For additional support regarding cyclical vomiting syndrome, further information and assistance are available from:

healthdirect Australia provides complimentary consultations with nurses or doctors for guidance.

For more information on cyclical vomiting syndrome, you can also contact the Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome Association (CVSA) for resources and support.

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CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Utilize the Symptom Checker to determine if medical attention is needed.

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If you suspect a child ingested a toxic substance or an overdose, contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 for guidance (24 hours).

nausea and vomiting
drowsiness
breathing difficulties

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fever
irritability
painful urination
reduced urination
strong-smelling urine

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cough
fever
runny nose
shortness of breath
diarrhea
nausea and vomiting

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Appendicitis is a medical emergency. If you suspect a child has appendicitis, take them urgently to a healthcare provider or hospital. A burst appendix can lead to life-threatening infection.

experience worsening abdominal pain
lose their appetite
vomit
have discomfort when sitting or standing
experience pain with movement

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vomiting
fever
headache
a stiff neck
light sensitivity
distinctive skin rash

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Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency. If a child is vomiting and dehydrated, bring them to the emergency department promptly.

The initial sign of diabetes in a child might be diabetic ketoacidosis. This condition arises when the body does not have enough insulin to use blood glucose for energy, resulting in the breakdown of fat and the formation of acidic ketones.
Manifestations of diabetic ketoacidosis include:
– Dehydration
– Vomiting
– Rapid breathing
– Fatigue
Parents might observe increased thirst and urination patterns in their child.
### If you suspect a child is experiencing a severe allergic reaction, contact triple zero (000) for an ambulance.
Common food allergies are often seen in the first year of life, especially when introducing new foods to the child.
During severe allergic reactions, the child may encounter anaphylaxis, which is a potentially life-threatening situation. Symptoms of anaphylaxis consist of:
– Breathing difficulties
– Throat swelling
– Wheezing
– Collapse
Cow’s milk allergy is an illustration of a food allergy that could trigger vomiting in young children.
### Possible causes of vomiting in children include:
– Intussusception (bowel obstruction)
– Pyloric stenosis (stomach valve narrowing)
– Raised intracranial pressure (skull pressure)
## Your doctor will evaluate the duration of your child’s vomiting and related symptoms to establish a diagnosis.
The medical professional will check for signs of dehydration during the assessment. Various tests may be conducted to identify the root cause of chronic vomiting. If your child has been vomiting persistently, a referral to a specialist such as a gastroenterologist, allergy expert, neurologist, or paediatrician may be recommended.
**ASK YOUR DOCTOR** — Prepare for your consultation by utilizing the **Question Builder** tool for guidance on inquiries to raise with your GP or specialist.
## Babies younger than 6 months old showing signs of vomiting or suspected gastroenteritis necessitate evaluation by a healthcare provider.
In cases where children with conditions such as diabetes or epilepsy are experiencing vomiting, seeking medical attention is advised.
### Vomiting in infants can pose a greater risk. The following are guidelines on when to seek medical aid for vomiting:
– Infants 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 displays these symptoms along with vomiting, take them to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately:
– Blood in vomit
– Green or brown vomit
– Continual or forceful vomiting
– Inability to retain fluids
– Severe abdominal or rectal pain
– Stiff neck with or without light sensitivity
– High fever (over 38.5°C)
– Signs of dehydration, like reduced wet diapers or dry mouth
**FIND A HEALTH SERVICE** — Locate doctors, pharmacies, hospitals, and other health services using the **Service Finder** tool.

For more information, check out the Ausmed Education website