What should you know about CVS vomiting?

Vomiting is the forceful emptying of stomach contents. It may occur with a short-lived stomach infection, food poisoning, migraine or medication side effect. Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fever or headache can help a clinician understand the pattern, but vomiting alone does not identify the cause.

Repeated vomiting can lead to dehydration and loss of salts. Warning signs include a dry mouth, very dark urine, reduced urination, weakness or light-headedness. Babies, older adults and people with long-term conditions may become unwell more quickly.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. Pause briefly after vomiting, then restart with tiny amounts. When fluids stay down, try bland foods in small portions and avoid alcohol, heavy meals and foods that clearly worsen nausea.

Wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for others if infection is possible. Do not give anti-vomiting medicine to a child or combine medicines without checking with a pharmacist or clinician.

Get urgent help for blood or coffee-ground material in vomit, green vomit, severe or localised abdominal pain, a stiff neck, confusion, chest pain, breathing difficulty, fainting, or inability to keep fluids down. Prompt advice is also needed with suspected poisoning, pregnancy, diabetes or signs of dehydration.

Ask what cause best fits the timing and associated symptoms, whether you need fluid or salt replacement, and which medicines are safe with your health conditions.