Nausea and vomiting: what to know

Nausea is the urge to vomit; vomiting is the forceful emptying of stomach contents. Food Poisoning, Gastroenteritis and Rotavirus Infection can cause vomiting with diarrhoea, cramps or fever. Migraine may bring nausea with headache or sensitivity to light. Gallstones or Pancreatitis can cause significant upper abdominal pain. Meningitis is uncommon but needs emergency attention when vomiting occurs with a severe headache, stiff neck, confusion or a rash. The pattern, timing and associated symptoms help guide assessment.

Rest and take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. When fluids stay down, try plain foods in small portions and return gradually to your usual meals. Avoid alcohol and rich or strongly scented foods while symptoms are active. Wash hands carefully, especially after vomiting or diarrhoea, and avoid preparing food for others until you are well. A symptom such as Vomiting that keeps returning deserves a clinician’s advice.

Get urgent help for blood or coffee-ground material in vomit, green vomit, severe or worsening abdominal pain, a stiff neck, confusion, severe headache, breathing difficulty, fainting or a serious injury. Seek prompt medical advice if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little urine, have persistent fever, or symptoms continue without improvement. Babies, older adults and people with significant health conditions can become dehydrated quickly.

Ask what cause best fits your symptoms, whether you need tests or prescription treatment, and how to replace fluids safely. Tell the clinician when vomiting began, how often it occurs, what you can drink, whether diarrhoea or pain is present, and which medicines you take.