What does the color of your vomit mean. How can you identify the cause of vomiting based on its appearance. When should you seek medical attention for vomiting. What are effective treatments for different types of vomit.

Understanding the Significance of Vomit Colors

Vomiting is a common symptom that can be associated with various health conditions, ranging from mild to severe. The color and consistency of vomit can provide valuable insights into its underlying cause. By understanding the different types of vomit, you can better assess your health situation and determine when to seek medical attention.

Let’s explore the 12 main types of vomit, their potential causes, and associated treatments:

Clear Vomit: Emptied Stomach or Serious Conditions

Clear vomit typically occurs after you’ve already emptied your stomach contents through previous episodes of vomiting. It can be associated with several conditions:

• Morning sickness
• Stomach flu
• Migraines
• Food poisoning
• Cyclic vomiting disorder

In some cases, clear vomit may indicate more serious conditions:

Gastric Outlet Obstruction

This occurs when the stomach is completely blocked, preventing the passage of food, liquids, or even saliva. Is gastric outlet obstruction a medical emergency. Yes, it requires immediate medical attention as it can lead to severe dehydration and malnutrition.

Head Injury

Frequent, severe vomiting after a head injury could be a sign of brain damage. Can clear vomit indicate a concussion. While it’s not a definitive sign, persistent clear vomiting following a head injury warrants immediate medical evaluation.

White or Foamy Vomit: Potential Digestive Issues

White vomit may occur after consuming white-colored foods like ice cream or milk. Foamy vomit, on the other hand, can indicate excess gas in the stomach and may be related to:

Acid Reflux or GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acids flow back into the esophagus. How can you distinguish GERD from occasional heartburn. GERD symptoms are typically more frequent and severe, often disrupting daily life and sleep patterns.

Gastritis

This condition involves inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by long-term use of certain pain relievers or excessive alcohol consumption. What are the common symptoms of gastritis. Symptoms may include indigestion, fullness in the upper abdomen after eating, and nausea.

Green or Yellow Vomit: Bile and Empty Stomach

Green or yellow vomit often indicates the presence of bile, a fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. This type of vomit may occur when:

• You have an empty stomach
• You’re experiencing stomach flu
• You’re dealing with morning sickness

Is green or yellow vomit always a cause for concern. Not necessarily. While it can be alarming, it’s often associated with less serious conditions that cause vomiting on an empty stomach. However, persistent green or yellow vomit should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Orange Vomit: Partially Digested Food and Common Illnesses

Orange vomit is often seen in the early stages of an illness that causes vomiting. It may persist if you continue eating between episodes. Common causes include:

Food Poisoning

Consuming contaminated foods can lead to food poisoning, characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. How long does food poisoning typically last. Most cases of food poisoning resolve within 1-3 days, but severe cases may last longer and require medical attention.

Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)

This viral infection can result from contact with an infected person or contaminated food and water. What are the key differences between food poisoning and stomach flu. While symptoms can be similar, stomach flu is caused by viruses and is often more contagious, while food poisoning is typically caused by bacteria or parasites in contaminated food.

Influenza

The flu can cause abrupt onset of symptoms, including vomiting, fever, muscle aches, and headache. How can you differentiate between the flu and a common cold. Flu symptoms are generally more severe and come on more suddenly than cold symptoms, often accompanied by higher fever and more intense body aches.

Migraines

Intense headaches associated with migraines can trigger vomiting, especially as the pain peaks. Can migraines cause recurrent vomiting. Yes, some people experience persistent vomiting throughout a migraine attack, which can last for hours or even days.

Pregnancy-Related Morning Sickness

Up to 70% of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting due to hormonal changes. Despite its name, morning sickness can occur at any time of day. When does morning sickness typically start and end during pregnancy. Morning sickness often begins around the 6th week of pregnancy and usually subsides by the end of the first trimester, though some women may experience it throughout their pregnancy.

Pink or Red Vomit: Potential Signs of Bleeding

Pink or red vomit can be alarming as it may indicate the presence of blood. Possible causes include:

• Damage to the throat, mouth, or gums
• Injury from frequent vomiting
• Peptic ulcers
• Mallory-Weiss tear (a tear in the lining of the esophagus)

Is pink or red vomit always a medical emergency. While not always an emergency, pink or red vomit should be evaluated by a healthcare professional promptly, especially if it persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Brown Vomit: Potential Indicators of Serious Conditions

Brown vomit can be a sign of more serious health issues, including:

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Blood that has been in the digestive tract for some time may appear brown when vomited. What are the potential causes of gastrointestinal bleeding. Causes can range from peptic ulcers and gastritis to more serious conditions like stomach cancer or liver disease.

Bowel Obstruction

A blockage in the intestines can cause brown, fecal-smelling vomit. Is a bowel obstruction a medical emergency. Yes, a bowel obstruction requires immediate medical attention as it can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Black Vomit: A Sign of Upper GI Bleeding

Black vomit, often described as having a coffee-ground appearance, can indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Causes may include:

• Bleeding ulcers
• Severe gastritis
• Esophageal varices (enlarged veins in the esophagus)
• Liver disease

Why does blood in vomit appear black. When blood interacts with stomach acid, it oxidizes, giving it a dark, coffee-ground-like appearance.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Vomiting

While occasional vomiting is usually not a cause for concern, certain situations warrant medical attention:

• Vomiting blood or black, coffee-ground-like material
• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Signs of severe dehydration (extreme thirst, dry mouth, decreased urination)
• Vomiting that lasts more than 24 hours in adults or 12 hours in children
• Fever above 101.5째F (38.6째C) in adults or 100.4째F (38째C) in children
• Inability to keep any fluids down for 12 hours or more

How can you prevent dehydration during episodes of vomiting. Try sipping small amounts of clear fluids frequently, sucking on ice chips, or using oral rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.

Treatment Options for Different Types of Vomiting

The treatment for vomiting depends on its underlying cause. Here are some general approaches:

Home Remedies

• Rest and avoid solid foods until vomiting subsides
• Gradually reintroduce bland, easily digestible foods (BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast)
• Stay hydrated with clear fluids and electrolyte solutions
• Avoid triggers like strong odors or certain foods

Over-the-Counter Medications

Antiemetic medications like Dramamine or Pepto-Bismol can help alleviate nausea and vomiting. Are OTC antiemetics safe for everyone. While generally safe for adults, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before using these medications, especially for children, pregnant women, or those with chronic health conditions.

Prescription Treatments

For persistent or severe vomiting, your doctor may prescribe stronger antiemetic medications or address the underlying cause with specific treatments.

Medical Interventions

In cases of severe dehydration or underlying medical conditions, hospitalization may be necessary for intravenous fluid replacement and targeted treatments.

Understanding the different types of vomit and their potential causes can help you make informed decisions about your health. While occasional vomiting is often not serious, persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. By recognizing warning signs and seeking timely medical attention, you can ensure proper treatment and prevent potential complications.

Vomit Color Chart: What Does It Mean?

Throwing up green, brown, or other-colored vomit can mean many things. That’s because vomiting is a symptom that accompanies various conditions, ranging from infection to chronic illness.

Vomiting that only lasts 1 or 2 days usually isn’t considered serious. It may just be your body’s reaction to irritation in your gut or a way of getting rid of harmful things in your stomach.

Short bouts of vomiting are usually tied to acute illnesses such as food poisoning. If you experience a cyclic pattern of vomiting over weeks or months, it may be caused by a chronic condition.

Oftentimes, its color will change as your body progresses through each stage of the underlying condition. For example, vomit due to the stomach flu may start as green or yellow and progress to orange.

Check out this vomit color chart to learn what each color of vomit may mean and when you should see a doctor.

Clear vomit usually occurs after you’ve already thrown up several times, effectively emptying your stomach of its food contents.

This may result from conditions such as:

• morning sickness
• the stomach flu
• migraine
• food poisoning
• cyclic vomiting disorder

In these cases, you may go on to throw up bile. Bile is usually yellow or green.

Clear vomit is also caused by:

• Gastric outlet obstruction. This occurs when your stomach is completely blocked by something such as a tumor or ulcer. When you have this type of obstruction, nothing you eat or drink can get through, including saliva or water.
• Head injury. Some people experience frequent, severe vomiting after a head injury. In severe cases, clear vomit may be a symptom of brain damage.

Your vomit may appear white if you’ve eaten something white, such as ice cream or milk.

Foamy vomit may develop if you have excess gas in your stomach. You should see a doctor if it lasts for more than a day or two.

What causes excess gas?

Conditions that cause excess gas include:

• Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Reflux occurs when stomach acids flow back into your esophagus from the stomach. Other symptoms include a burning sensation in your throat, chest pain, and trouble swallowing.
• Gastritis. This is inflammation in the lining of your stomach. This can develop if you take certain pain relievers long-term or drink excessive amounts of alcohol. Other symptoms include indigestion, fullness in the upper abdomen after eating, and nausea.

Green or yellow vomit may indicate that you’re bringing up a fluid called bile. This fluid is created by the liver and stored in your gallbladder.

Bile isn’t always a cause for concern. You may see it if you have a less serious condition that causes vomiting while your stomach is empty. This includes the stomach flu and morning sickness.

You may see orange vomiting in the first several hours of an illness that causes vomiting. The color may persist if you continue eating between vomiting episodes, as orange is the color of partially digested foods.

Unless it persists for more than a day or two, orange vomit usually isn’t cause for concern.

Orange vomit is commonly caused by:

• Food poisoning after eating contaminated foods. Other symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever.
• Gastroenteritis or stomach flu. This virus may result from contact with a sick person or contaminated food and water. Other symptoms include a low grade fever, muscle aches, and abdominal pain.
• Influenza or the flu. This illness may begin rather abruptly. The symptoms are similar to those of a common cold, causing a runny nose and sore throat. As it progresses, you may develop a persistent fever, fatigue, chills, and headache.
• Migraine. With migraine attacks, you experience intense headaches. They may last for a few hours or even days at a time. You may feel the urge to vomit as the migraine attack peaks or experience recurrent vomiting if the pain persists.
• Vomiting related to pregnancy (morning sickness). As the hormones build up in the body during pregnancy, you may become nauseated and vomit. Up to 70% of women who are pregnant experience nausea and vomiting. Although this condition is called morning sickness, vomiting may occur at any time.

You may also vomit orange as a result of:

• appendicitis
• motion sickness
• chemotherapy
• inner ear infection
• certain medications

In these cases, orange vomit is usually temporary. Your vomit will likely progress to another color.

Vomiting large amounts of blood is also called hematemesis. Although it’s often pink or bright red, it may also appear black or dark brown.

You should always see a doctor if you have pink, red, or otherwise bloody vomit.

Kid vomiting blood

In children, bloody vomit may be a symptom of:

• dietary intolerance to milk
• swallowed blood from injury to the mouth
• certain blood clotting disorders
• structural birth irregularities

Adult vomiting blood

In adults, pink or red vomit is commonly caused by:

• Damage to your throat, mouth, or gums from coughing or vomiting. Small amounts of blood may not be a reason for alarm. But if you see a significant amount or it looks like coffee grounds, call a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.
• Peptic ulcers or torn blood vessels. Peptic ulcers or torn blood vessels may cause bleeding in your upper gastrointestinal tract. This includes your mouth, esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine.
• Amyloidosis. This condition happens when protein builds up in your vital organs. You may experience anything from diarrhea to bloating to vomiting blood.
• Liver failure. This condition primarily affects people who have preexisting liver disease. You may notice yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. Other symptoms include swelling of the abdomen, pain in the upper right abdomen, and feeling sleepy or confused.
• Mallory-Weiss tear. This refers to a tear in your esophagus resulting from frequent and particularly forceful vomiting episodes.

There are two possible causes of brown vomit.

In many cases, this color is actually a shade of red, indicating blood. If it resembles light coffee grounds, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. This may be the result of peptic ulcers, amyloidosis, or another severe underlying condition.

Severe constipation can also cause brown vomiting. This condition inhibits digestion. As a result, your vomit may smell like fecal matter. Other symptoms may include bloating and severe abdominal pain. See a doctor for diagnosis.

Black may also be a shade of red, indicating bloody vomit. It might even resemble dark coffee grounds.

Your vomit may appear black if the blood has been oxidized by the acids in your stomach. The iron in your blood turns from brown to black with time. Since the blood is no longer bright red, it means that the bleeding has either stopped or is only happening in a small amount.

Black vomit is caused by the conditions that cause bloody vomit (detailed in the previous section). You should see a doctor as soon as possible to receive a diagnosis.

In some cases, your vomit may change texture simply based on the contents of your stomach or how long it’s been since you’ve eaten certain things. The texture may also change if you’ve had repeated vomiting episodes — first throwing up food and then throwing up bile and stomach acids.

These changes usually aren’t reasons to worry, but if you see anything unusual or experience other symptoms, it’s a good idea to let a doctor know.

Contact a doctor or get immediate medical attention if you see significant amounts of blood in your vomit. Remember: The color of the blood may range from red to brown to black

Contact 911 or local emergency services if your bloody vomit is accompanied by dizziness, rapid or shallow breathing, or other symptoms of shock.

Green or yellow vomit may also be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as bile reflux. If you have risk factors or experience other concerning symptoms, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.

You should also see a doctor if:

• Your vomiting has lasted 48 hours and isn’t getting better.
• You’re unable to keep down any fluids.
• You have symptoms of dehydration, including dizziness or headache.
• You’ve lost weight from vomiting.
• You have diabetes. Repeated vomiting may impact your blood sugar levels.
• You have severe chest pain. This may indicate a heart attack.

You should also let a healthcare professional know if you experience frequent vomiting. There are several reasons a person can have recurrent vomiting. One example is cyclic vomiting disorder, which is caused by certain neurological conditions. With cyclic vomiting, you may throw up at the same time each day for a certain period of time.

Does green vomit mean infection?

Green vomit can be a sign of stomach flu. Other reasons vomit may be green or yellow include:

• bile reflux
• food poisoning
• vomiting on an empty stomach
• intestinal obstruction

What should I eat after vomiting bile?

Regardless of the type or color of your vomit, you may want to eat a bland diet until you can either feel better or see a doctor and get treatment for the underlying cause. Learn about the BRAT diet.

What is the treatment for vomiting green bile?

If you’re throwing up bile, your doctor will likely prescribe ursodeoxycholic acid or a bile acid sequestrant. If the cause is not an illness but a structural problem, you may need surgery. Learn more about throwing up bile.

Usually, vomiting is an irritating, but not life threatening, part of the illness. The colors and textures you see in the vomit color chart may have to do with the contents of your stomach or how long you’ve been vomiting.

Some colors, such as red, brown, or black, may indicate more serious or rare conditions that require medical attention.

You should make an appointment to see a doctor if you’re seeing unusual shades or if vomiting has lasted longer than 1 or 2 days.

Read this article in Spanish

Vomit Color Chart: What Does It Mean?

Throwing up green, brown, or other-colored vomit can mean many things. That’s because vomiting is a symptom that accompanies various conditions, ranging from infection to chronic illness.

Vomiting that only lasts 1 or 2 days usually isn’t considered serious. It may just be your body’s reaction to irritation in your gut or a way of getting rid of harmful things in your stomach.

Short bouts of vomiting are usually tied to acute illnesses such as food poisoning. If you experience a cyclic pattern of vomiting over weeks or months, it may be caused by a chronic condition.

Oftentimes, its color will change as your body progresses through each stage of the underlying condition. For example, vomit due to the stomach flu may start as green or yellow and progress to orange.

Check out this vomit color chart to learn what each color of vomit may mean and when you should see a doctor.

Clear vomit usually occurs after you’ve already thrown up several times, effectively emptying your stomach of its food contents.

This may result from conditions such as:

• morning sickness
• the stomach flu
• migraine
• food poisoning
• cyclic vomiting disorder

In these cases, you may go on to throw up bile. Bile is usually yellow or green.

Clear vomit is also caused by:

• Gastric outlet obstruction. This occurs when your stomach is completely blocked by something such as a tumor or ulcer. When you have this type of obstruction, nothing you eat or drink can get through, including saliva or water.
• Head injury. Some people experience frequent, severe vomiting after a head injury. In severe cases, clear vomit may be a symptom of brain damage.

Your vomit may appear white if you’ve eaten something white, such as ice cream or milk.

Foamy vomit may develop if you have excess gas in your stomach. You should see a doctor if it lasts for more than a day or two.

What causes excess gas?

Conditions that cause excess gas include:

• Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Reflux occurs when stomach acids flow back into your esophagus from the stomach. Other symptoms include a burning sensation in your throat, chest pain, and trouble swallowing.
• Gastritis. This is inflammation in the lining of your stomach. This can develop if you take certain pain relievers long-term or drink excessive amounts of alcohol. Other symptoms include indigestion, fullness in the upper abdomen after eating, and nausea.

Green or yellow vomit may indicate that you’re bringing up a fluid called bile. This fluid is created by the liver and stored in your gallbladder.

Bile isn’t always a cause for concern. You may see it if you have a less serious condition that causes vomiting while your stomach is empty. This includes the stomach flu and morning sickness.

You may see orange vomiting in the first several hours of an illness that causes vomiting. The color may persist if you continue eating between vomiting episodes, as orange is the color of partially digested foods.

Unless it persists for more than a day or two, orange vomit usually isn’t cause for concern.

Orange vomit is commonly caused by:

• Food poisoning after eating contaminated foods. Other symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever.
• Gastroenteritis or stomach flu. This virus may result from contact with a sick person or contaminated food and water. Other symptoms include a low grade fever, muscle aches, and abdominal pain.
• Influenza or the flu. This illness may begin rather abruptly. The symptoms are similar to those of a common cold, causing a runny nose and sore throat. As it progresses, you may develop a persistent fever, fatigue, chills, and headache.
• Migraine. With migraine attacks, you experience intense headaches. They may last for a few hours or even days at a time. You may feel the urge to vomit as the migraine attack peaks or experience recurrent vomiting if the pain persists.
• Vomiting related to pregnancy (morning sickness). As the hormones build up in the body during pregnancy, you may become nauseated and vomit. Up to 70% of women who are pregnant experience nausea and vomiting. Although this condition is called morning sickness, vomiting may occur at any time.

You may also vomit orange as a result of:

• appendicitis
• motion sickness
• chemotherapy
• inner ear infection
• certain medications

In these cases, orange vomit is usually temporary. Your vomit will likely progress to another color.

Vomiting large amounts of blood is also called hematemesis. Although it’s often pink or bright red, it may also appear black or dark brown.

You should always see a doctor if you have pink, red, or otherwise bloody vomit.

Kid vomiting blood

In children, bloody vomit may be a symptom of:

• dietary intolerance to milk
• swallowed blood from injury to the mouth
• certain blood clotting disorders
• structural birth irregularities

Adult vomiting blood

In adults, pink or red vomit is commonly caused by:

• Damage to your throat, mouth, or gums from coughing or vomiting. Small amounts of blood may not be a reason for alarm. But if you see a significant amount or it looks like coffee grounds, call a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.
• Peptic ulcers or torn blood vessels. Peptic ulcers or torn blood vessels may cause bleeding in your upper gastrointestinal tract. This includes your mouth, esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine.
• Amyloidosis. This condition happens when protein builds up in your vital organs. You may experience anything from diarrhea to bloating to vomiting blood.
• Liver failure. This condition primarily affects people who have preexisting liver disease. You may notice yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. Other symptoms include swelling of the abdomen, pain in the upper right abdomen, and feeling sleepy or confused.
• Mallory-Weiss tear. This refers to a tear in your esophagus resulting from frequent and particularly forceful vomiting episodes.

There are two possible causes of brown vomit.

In many cases, this color is actually a shade of red, indicating blood. If it resembles light coffee grounds, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. This may be the result of peptic ulcers, amyloidosis, or another severe underlying condition.

Severe constipation can also cause brown vomiting. This condition inhibits digestion. As a result, your vomit may smell like fecal matter. Other symptoms may include bloating and severe abdominal pain. See a doctor for diagnosis.

Black may also be a shade of red, indicating bloody vomit. It might even resemble dark coffee grounds.

Your vomit may appear black if the blood has been oxidized by the acids in your stomach. The iron in your blood turns from brown to black with time. Since the blood is no longer bright red, it means that the bleeding has either stopped or is only happening in a small amount.

Black vomit is caused by the conditions that cause bloody vomit (detailed in the previous section). You should see a doctor as soon as possible to receive a diagnosis.

In some cases, your vomit may change texture simply based on the contents of your stomach or how long it’s been since you’ve eaten certain things. The texture may also change if you’ve had repeated vomiting episodes — first throwing up food and then throwing up bile and stomach acids.

These changes usually aren’t reasons to worry, but if you see anything unusual or experience other symptoms, it’s a good idea to let a doctor know.

Contact a doctor or get immediate medical attention if you see significant amounts of blood in your vomit. Remember: The color of the blood may range from red to brown to black

Contact 911 or local emergency services if your bloody vomit is accompanied by dizziness, rapid or shallow breathing, or other symptoms of shock.

Green or yellow vomit may also be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as bile reflux. If you have risk factors or experience other concerning symptoms, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.

You should also see a doctor if:

• Your vomiting has lasted 48 hours and isn’t getting better.
• You’re unable to keep down any fluids.
• You have symptoms of dehydration, including dizziness or headache.
• You’ve lost weight from vomiting.
• You have diabetes. Repeated vomiting may impact your blood sugar levels.
• You have severe chest pain. This may indicate a heart attack.

You should also let a healthcare professional know if you experience frequent vomiting. There are several reasons a person can have recurrent vomiting. One example is cyclic vomiting disorder, which is caused by certain neurological conditions. With cyclic vomiting, you may throw up at the same time each day for a certain period of time.

Does green vomit mean infection?

Green vomit can be a sign of stomach flu. Other reasons vomit may be green or yellow include:

• bile reflux
• food poisoning
• vomiting on an empty stomach
• intestinal obstruction

What should I eat after vomiting bile?

Regardless of the type or color of your vomit, you may want to eat a bland diet until you can either feel better or see a doctor and get treatment for the underlying cause. Learn about the BRAT diet.

What is the treatment for vomiting green bile?

If you’re throwing up bile, your doctor will likely prescribe ursodeoxycholic acid or a bile acid sequestrant. If the cause is not an illness but a structural problem, you may need surgery. Learn more about throwing up bile.

Usually, vomiting is an irritating, but not life threatening, part of the illness. The colors and textures you see in the vomit color chart may have to do with the contents of your stomach or how long you’ve been vomiting.

Some colors, such as red, brown, or black, may indicate more serious or rare conditions that require medical attention.

You should make an appointment to see a doctor if you’re seeing unusual shades or if vomiting has lasted longer than 1 or 2 days.

Read this article in Spanish

Vomiting: causes and types

Contents

• 1 Vomiting: causes and types, symptoms and treatment
  • 1.1 Vomiting: causes and types
    • 1. 1.1 Causes of vomiting
    • 1.1.2 Type vomiting
  • 1.2 Vomiting : what it is?
  • 1.3 Causes of vomiting
  • 1.4 Physical causes of vomiting
  • 1.5 Vomiting: nutritional causes
  • 1.6 Drug-induced vomiting
  • 1.7 Emotional vomiting
  • 1 .8 Vomiting in children: causes and symptoms
    • 1.8.1 Causes of vomiting in children
    • 1.8.2 Symptoms of vomiting in children
    • 1.8.3 What to do if a child is vomiting
  • 1.9 Risk of vomiting
  • 1.10 Ways to prevent vomiting
    • 1.10.1 Diet
    • 1.10.2 Drink water
    • 1.10.3 Avoid stress
    • 1.10.4 Take medication
    • 1.10.5 Keep your head
  • 1.11 Q&A:
    • • 1.11.0.1 What causes vomiting?
      • 1.11.0.2 What types of vomiting are there?
      • 1.11.0.3 What precautions should be taken to prevent vomiting?
      • 1.11.0.4 Which medications can cause vomiting?
      • 1. 11.0.5 What should I do if I vomit regularly?
      • 1.11.0.6 What is the relationship between vomiting and pregnancy?

We study the causes and types of vomiting: when it is a dangerous symptom, how to stop it and how to treat it. Useful information for everyone who cares about the health of their body.

Vomiting is a natural defense mechanism of the body that helps to get rid of toxins and other harmful substances that have entered the stomach. However, in some cases, vomiting may be a sign of some disease or condition in the body. Therefore, it is an important function for human health.

In this article we will talk about the causes of vomiting, its types, methods of treatment and prevention. You will learn what diseases can cause vomiting, how vomiting occurs in the body, how vomiting occurs and whether you should see a doctor if you have symptoms of vomiting.

Regardless of why vomiting occurs, it can be very harmful to health, making you feel weak, restless and irritable. Through this article, you will know how to properly manage your health when vomiting occurs and how to help your body get rid of toxins and harmful substances.

Vomiting: causes and types

Causes of vomiting

Vomiting is an organismic protective reflex aimed at cleansing the gastrointestinal tract from harmful substances, bacteria, toxins and other substances. The reason for such a protective reflex may be:

• Acute infection.
• Poisoning (poisons, food, alcohol, etc.).
• Brain injury.
• Diseases of the thyroid gland.
• Disorders of the stomach and intestines.
• Stress, nervous tension.

Types of vomiting

Vomiting can be different: acute, chronic, accompanied by severe pain and painless. Depending on the cause and accompanying symptoms, vomiting can be:

• Simple or common. It occurs as a result of overeating or eating poor-quality food.
• Painful. Occurs with receptor, somatic or mental disorders.
• Gallbladder. It is caused by bile entering the stomach from the bile ducts or gallbladder.
• Bloody. Occurs when the mucous membrane of the stomach or small intestine is damaged.

Vomiting can be one of the signs of a serious illness, so it is important to seek medical attention if vomiting is prolonged or frequent.

Vomiting: what is it?

Vomiting is the involuntary expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth and larynx.

Vomiting can occur as a result of various factors. Some of these include digestive disorders, psychological stress, infectious diseases, poisoning with toxic substances, hormonal changes, and many others.

Various methods can be used to treat vomiting, including the use of special medications and lifestyle changes. It is important to understand that symptoms of vomiting may be signs of a more serious illness. If vomiting occurs frequently and is accompanied by other symptoms, medical attention should be sought.

Causes of vomiting

Vomiting is a protective reaction of the body to various stimuli. The causes of vomiting can be varied and are associated with various diseases and conditions of the body.

Acute infection is one of the most common causes of vomiting. The body may not be able to cope with bacteria and viruses that cause acute respiratory illness, influenza, pneumonia, and other infections, leading to vomiting.

For chronic diseases – vomiting may be the result of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Such diseases include peptic ulcer, gastritis, pancreatitis, etc. In some cases, the cause of vomiting can be toxic substances, alcohol, and allergic reactions.

In case of malnutrition – if eating is accompanied by overeating, rapid swallowing, eating fatty, spicy and difficult to digest food, as well as eating at night, then vomiting may occur. Vomiting can also be the result of food poisoning, inappropriate storage conditions, or expiration.

Thus, vomiting is a problem requiring attention and separate consideration. Early diagnosis and timely treatment will help prevent the development of complications and maintain the health of the body.

Physical causes of vomiting

Vomiting can be caused by various physical causes. For example, it may occur due to an infection caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Also, vomiting can be the result of poisoning with toxins, some drugs or alcohol. Another cause of vomiting may be an allergic reaction to certain foods or something else.

Vomiting can also often be a side effect of some kind of medical procedure, such as chemotherapy for cancer. Also, pregnant women often experience vomiting early in their pregnancy due to hormonal changes in their body.

• Infections: viruses, bacteria, fungi
• Toxins: poisoning, drugs, alcohol
• Allergies: food, other allergens
• Diseases: stomach ulcer, gastritis, acid reflux
• Nutrition: excess fat and sweets
• Injury: injury to the head or spine
• Medical procedures: chemotherapy, other procedures
• Pregnancy: hormonal changes

Vomiting: food causes

Food poisoning is one of the most common causes of vomiting. They can be caused by eating food containing bacteria or toxins such as Salmonella, E. coli, or botulinum, as well as fungal toxins. Symptoms usually appear within hours of consumption and may include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain.

Allergies to certain foods may also cause vomiting. The reaction may be immediate or delayed, with a delay of several hours between food intake and the onset of symptoms. The most common allergens are milk protein, eggs, gluten (found in wheat flour), peanuts and fish.

Overeating can also cause vomiting. Food may simply not be absorbed by the body in too much, or digestive system disorders may lead to refusal to accept large portions.

Food intolerances , such as lactose or fructose intolerance, may cause vomiting in some people. Symptoms may include vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Other food causes of may include odors and flavors that are disgusting or a refined odor that can lead to nausea. Also, food can cause vomiting due to its properties – for example, sticking, frothiness or acidity.

Drug vomiting

Drug-induced vomiting is an undesirable side effect of medications where there is a strong desire to get rid of the medications taken. Often occurs after the use of antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics and a number of other drugs.

Symptoms of drug-induced emesis can range from mild nausea to profuse vomiting accompanied by headache, dizziness and loss of appetite. If vomiting does not stop or is accompanied by other dangerous symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.

To prevent drug-induced vomiting, take medicines according to the instructions for use and do not exceed the recommended doses. In case of gross violation of the dosage, acute poisoning may occur, requiring emergency medical care.

Emotional vomiting

Emotional vomiting is a response to psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, fear and depression. This type of vomiting may also be accompanied by symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and palpitations.

Emotional vomiting is often caused by a disturbance in the digestive system, which contributes to the rejection of food. However, sometimes it can be caused by psychological problems that are redirected to the physical body. Treatment for emotional vomiting may include psychotherapy, which helps the patient overcome emotional problems and improve overall psychological well-being.

For emotional vomiting, it is recommended to relax and breathe slowly to reduce stress levels. In addition, some techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can be used to improve mental health. If the symptoms of emotional vomiting do not improve, it is worth visiting a doctor to rule out the possibility of other physical causes.

Vomiting in children: causes and symptoms

Causes of vomiting in children

Vomiting in children can be caused by many factors:

• Gastrointestinal tract infections such as gastroenteritis, salmonellosis, escherichiosis and others;
• Allergic reaction to food or drugs;
• Reaction to stress or emotional tension;
• Diseases such as gastritis, gastric ulcer, cholecystitis and others;
• Prolonged exposure to the sun in hot weather;
• Overheating or hypothermia of the body.

Symptoms of vomiting in children

In addition to vomiting itself, children may experience the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain;
• Diarrhea;
• Loss of appetite;
• Weakness and fatigue;
• Chest pain or palpitations.

What to do if the child vomits

If the child vomits:

1. Keep the child hydrated by giving him water, tea or low-fat broth;
2. Monitor the child and call a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen;
3. Avoid fatty, sugary or indigestible foods until fully recovered;
4. Provide adequate rest and care for the child.

When to see a doctorSymptoms Time of stay

Risk of vomiting

Vomiting can be a symptom of many diseases and conditions in the body, such as infections, poisoning, drug reactions, or gastrointestinal problems. But in addition to the symptom, vomiting can be an independent dangerous condition.

The first threat of when vomiting is dehydration of the body due to frequent and profuse loss of fluid and electrolytes. This is especially dangerous for young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Signs of dehydration are dry mouth, urination less often 2-3 times a day, decreased circle and eye strain, decreased surface hydration layer on the skin, puffs inside the cheeks, finger pricks with a thread of the skin vessel with the elbow, dryness and temperature of the skin folds, nervousness, headache.

The second danger of is the possible inhalation of vomit. This is especially likely in people who are helpless, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and young children. This can lead to aspiration pneumonia, which is a severe and dangerous complication.

The third threat is the possible development of electrolyte disturbances. Vomiting leads to a loss of electrolytes, primarily potassium, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and other serious complications.

Therefore, if vomiting lasts longer than a day or occurs strongly and frequently (more than 3-4 times per hour), you should consult a doctor to clarify the cause and receive treatment.

Ways to prevent vomiting

Diet

Diet is one of the key factors that can affect vomiting. Avoid heavy and fatty foods, as well as a sudden change in diet. Instead, follow a regular eating schedule and eat light, healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

Drinking water

Try to stay hydrated and drink enough lighter, purer water to avoid dehydration. Dehydration is a common cause of vomiting, and drinking water can help prevent it.

Avoid stress

Stress is another factor that can contribute to vomiting. It is important to avoid stressful situations, and also try to relax and reduce stress levels through yoga, meditation, or other relaxation methods.

Take your medication

There are various medications that can help prevent vomiting, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and antisteroids. Discuss with your doctor which medications may be best for you.

Save your head

Vomiting can be caused by headaches, migraines and other headaches. Try to avoid headaches and see your doctor if you have frequent headaches and other head problems.

Q&A:

What causes vomiting?

Vomiting can be the result of various factors such as intolerance to certain foods, severe stress, infectious diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, certain medications, etc.

What types of vomiting are there?

Depending on the cause, the types of vomiting may vary. Short-term episodic vomiting can be caused by intoxication, substance poisoning, food intolerance, or stress. Prolonged vomiting can be the result of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, brain or systemic diseases. Other types of vomiting may be caused by flatulence, motion sickness, an allergic reaction, etc.

What precautions should be taken to prevent vomiting?

There are several precautions to prevent vomiting, such as avoiding potentially hazardous foods, controlling food quality, washing hands frequently and preventing transmission of infections, eating regularly, and not overeating.

Which medications can cause vomiting?

Some medications can cause vomiting, such as antibiotics, antihistamines, anti-bradycardia drugs, and chemotherapy drugs. If vomiting has become regular while taking medications, it is recommended to seek the advice of a doctor.

What should I do if I vomit regularly?

If vomiting has become a regular occurrence, a doctor should be consulted. The doctor will conduct the necessary studies, prescribe treatment, tell you what changes need to be made to the diet in order to prevent vomiting.

What is the relationship between vomiting and pregnancy?

Morning sickness, repeated vomiting during pregnancy may be due to changes in hormonal balance, as well as the body’s adaptation to a new state. In some cases, vomiting can be a symptom of pregnancy complications. If vomiting during pregnancy causes discomfort, some medications may help.

why does it occur and how to stop it quickly?

Vomiting: why does it occur and how to stop it quickly?

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• Vomiting: why it occurs and how to quickly stop it?

Vomiting: why does it occur and how to stop it quickly?

Vomiting is one of the protective reflexes of the body, which helps to get rid of toxins and irritants. In this case, it occurs once, and after cleansing the stomach, a person feels significant relief. If vomiting recurs, the patient definitely needs help. It is not always possible to immediately consult a doctor, so we recommend that you carefully read the tips on how to stop vomiting and prevent its complications.

Why vomiting can occur

The most common reason is food poisoning and various types of intestinal infections that occur when eating poor-quality food and water, getting microbes into the mouth with dirty hands. Vomiting is usually accompanied by pain in the abdomen, rumbling in the intestines, and diarrhea. In addition to viral and bacterial infections, vomiting may be associated with helminthiasis and protozoan infestations.

There are many non-infectious causes of vomiting:

● chronic diseases of the digestive system: gastritis, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, biliary dyskinesia, functional dyspepsia;

● poisoning with drugs, detergents, salts of heavy metals, alcohol and other chemicals;

● acute surgical diseases: appendicitis, biliary colic, intestinal obstruction, peritonitis;

● brain damage: meningitis, traumatic brain injury, tumor;

● early toxicosis of pregnancy.

In people with increased anxiety and suspiciousness, the appearance of vomiting can be one of the signs of stress. The symptom occurs with strong excitement, fear, nervous shock, often accompanied by discomfort in the abdomen and the urge to defecate. After reducing the intensity of emotions, uncomfortable sensations disappear without a trace.

How to stop vomiting quickly

The most effective drugs are dopamine receptor blockers (Cerukal, Motilium), which inhibit the central mechanism of vomiting and cope with an unpleasant symptom in a short time. Medicines normalize the motility of the gastrointestinal tract and promote the movement of food masses through the intestines, thereby reducing heaviness in the abdomen, nausea and other uncomfortable sensations.

Do not forget that drugs have a number of contraindications and can cause side effects. Before using them, you need to read the instructions and it is advisable to consult a doctor by phone, messenger, video call or other convenient way.

In order not to provoke repeated bouts of vomiting, you should follow these rules:

● after emptying the stomach, rinse your mouth with cool water, drink ginger tea or eat mint candy;

● do not try to force food if there is no feeling of hunger;

● Avoid strong odors that can provoke vomiting;

● Take a seated or lying position, avoid physical activity that increases discomfort.

If vomiting was several times, it leads to dehydration, which is fraught with disruption of the heart, kidneys and other organs. After the vomiting has stopped, you need to take care of replenishing fluid losses – oral rehydration. Ready-made pharmaceutical products are best suited for this purpose – a mixture of electrolytes necessary to normalize heart rate, muscle contractions, and excretory function. They are available in powders, which must be dissolved with water according to the instructions and drunk for a specified period of time.

When there are no medicines at hand, you can use improvised means. To correct dehydration, mineral water, weak tea, dried fruit compote are suitable. It is also easy to prepare a dehydration drink at home using 1 liter of pure water, a teaspoon of salt and a tablespoon of sugar.

When to call an ambulance

● repeated and indomitable vomiting that cannot be stopped by drugs;

● the appearance of blood or bile in the vomit;

● unbearable abdominal pain;

● decrease in urine volume or complete absence of urination;

● convulsions;

● temperature increase over 39°С;

● irregular, too frequent and weak pulse;

● pallor of the skin, the appearance of a cyanotic color on the fingers and toes, around the mouth;

● lethargy and drowsiness, loss of consciousness.

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