First aid for vomiting

Vomiting is the forceful emptying of stomach contents. It may occur with gastroenteritis, food poisoning, migraine, or rotavirus infection. Less common but urgent causes include meningitis, gallstones, or pancreatitis. The associated features matter: diarrhoea, fever, headache, abdominal pain, a stiff neck, blood, or green vomit can change how urgently you need assessment.

Sit upright or lie on your side so vomit does not enter the airway. After the stomach settles, take small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink at short intervals; increase gradually if it stays down. Avoid large gulps, alcohol, and heavy or greasy meals. When ready, choose plain food in small portions. Rinse your mouth, rest, and wash hands well. Do not give medicines to a child, older adult, or pregnant person without checking that they are suitable.

Get urgent help for blood or coffee-ground vomit, green vomit, severe or worsening abdominal pain, a stiff neck, severe headache, confusion, fainting, chest pain, or breathing difficulty. Arrange prompt assessment if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little urine, have a dry mouth with marked weakness, or vomiting continues. Babies, older adults, and people with significant medical conditions can become dehydrated quickly and should be assessed early.

Ask which fluids and foods suit you, whether a medicine is safe, and which symptom would mean you should return for urgent review.