Frequent Vomiting in Children
Overview
Frequent vomiting in children is a common pediatric concern that can result from a variety of causes, including infections, gastrointestinal issues, food intolerances, or motion sickness. While occasional vomiting is usually not serious, repeated or persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies. Timely evaluation by a pediatrician ensures proper care and prevents complications.
- Symptoms of Frequent Vomiting
- Repeated vomiting episodes over hours or days
- Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Lethargy or irritability
- Signs of dehydration: dry lips, reduced urine output, sunken eyes
- Fever, diarrhea, or other systemic symptoms in some cases
When to See a Doctor
Parents should seek medical attention if:
- Vomiting persists for more than 24–48 hours
- Signs of dehydration appear (dry mouth, low urine output, dizziness)
- Vomiting is accompanied by blood or green/yellow bile
- The child has severe abdominal pain or a distended abdomen
- Vomiting occurs after a head injury or is associated with neurological symptoms
Causes and Risk Factors
- Gastrointestinal infections: Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu), bacterial infections
- Food intolerances or allergies: Lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, or other food reactions
- Motion sickness: Car, bus, or boat travel triggering nausea
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD): Stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus
- Medication side effects: Certain antibiotics or pain medications
- Metabolic or systemic illnesses: Rarely, liver, kidney, or neurological disorders
Diagnosis
At Ankura Hospitals, pediatricians and pediatric gastroenterologists diagnose frequent vomiting through:
- Detailed history including frequency, duration, and triggers
- Physical examination for dehydration, abdominal tenderness, or systemic signs
- Blood tests to check electrolytes, liver, and kidney function
- Stool tests to detect infections or malabsorption
- Imaging studies (ultrasound, X-ray) in persistent or severe cases
Treatment Options
- Hydration therapy: Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) or intravenous fluids if needed
- Medications: Anti-nausea or acid-reducing medications depending on cause
- Dietary adjustments: Small, frequent meals and easily digestible foods
- Treatment of underlying cause: Addressing infections, allergies, or reflux
- Hospitalization: In severe or complicated cases to restore fluids and electrolytes
Home Care & Prevention
- Encourage small, frequent sips of water or ORS
- Avoid solid foods until vomiting subsides; gradually reintroduce bland foods
- Identify and avoid triggers like certain foods or motion
- Maintain good hand hygiene to prevent infections
- Monitor hydration and seek timely medical help if symptoms worsen
Why Choose Ankura Hospitals
- Experienced pediatricians specialized in gastrointestinal and general pediatric care
- Advanced diagnostic facilities for accurate identification of underlying causes
- Child-friendly environment to reduce stress during treatment
- Individualized care plans, including nutrition counseling and home guidance
- Multidisciplinary support for complex or recurrent vomiting cases
- Gastroenteritis (Diarrhea & Vomiting) in Children
- Reflux / GERD in Children
- Constipation in Children
- Diarrhoea in Children
- Is My Baby’s Stool Normal? How to Identify Newborn Diarrhea
- Newborn Reflux / Spit-Ups
- Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Children
Frequently Asked Questions
Our healthcare specialists are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide you with the support you require. From consultation to diagnosis to treatments, our experts are dedicated to helping you.