Why does gastroenteritis cause vomiting?

When the digestive tract is irritated, messages travel to the brain areas that coordinate nausea and vomiting. Abdominal cramps, a raised temperature and diarrhoea may occur at the same time. Vomiting is a very common presentation of Gastroenteritis.

Vomiting has many possible causes, so it should be considered with the rest of the symptoms and your medical history. Repeated vomiting matters chiefly because it can quickly reduce the fluid and salts your body retains.

After vomiting, wait until the immediate wave has settled, then restart with tiny sips every few minutes. Oral rehydration solution can be useful where fluid losses are significant. Increase the amount gradually if it stays down, and return to light foods when you feel able.

Avoid alcohol and large meals while your stomach is unsettled. Rest, and keep a note of how often you are vomiting and whether you are able to pass urine; this can help a clinician judge dehydration.

Seek prompt medical care if you cannot retain fluids, have dark or very little urine, fainting, marked sleepiness, or worsening weakness. Get urgent help for vomit containing blood or material that resembles coffee grounds, severe abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

Infants and young children need earlier assessment when vomiting is persistent, because dehydration can develop rapidly. The same caution applies during pregnancy and for people with serious chronic illness.

Ask how to use rehydration fluids, which warning signs should prompt an examination, and whether any usual medicines require special handling. Share details about recent food, travel, sick contacts, fever, diarrhoea and the appearance of the vomit.