Heartburn and vomiting at night: what to know

When you lie down, stomach contents can move upward more easily and cause burning, sour fluid, cough, or nausea. A large late meal, reflux, stomach irritation, or a hiatus hernia may contribute. Vomiting that repeatedly wakes you can also cause dehydration and further irritate the food pipe. Learn more about [Heartburn](/symptoms/heartburn/) and [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/).

Night symptoms alone do not identify one cause. A clinician may ask about meal timing, alcohol, medicines, swallowing, pain, and whether symptoms happen while upright.

Stop eating for a short period after vomiting, then take small sips of water if you can keep them down. Keep your upper body raised rather than lying flat, and avoid another heavy meal before sleep. Do not use someone else’s medicine. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether [Acid Reflux Medication](/treatments/medical-management/acid-reflux-medication/) is suitable for you.

Get emergency help for vomit containing blood, severe chest or abdominal pain, fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty, or inability to keep fluids down. Seek medical advice promptly if nighttime episodes keep recurring, swallowing becomes difficult, or you have signs of dehydration such as very little urine, marked dizziness, or a dry mouth.

Ask whether your pattern fits reflux, gastritis, or a hiatus hernia; how long to try lifestyle measures; which medicines may worsen symptoms; and whether you need an examination or further tests.