Vomiting: Causes, Red Flags, and Home Management

Vomiting (emesis) is a nonspecific symptom with diverse etiologies:

Common Causes

• Gastroenteritis (viral/bacterial/foodborne)
• Motion sickness
• Pregnancy (hyperemesis gravidarum)
• Food allergy/anaphylaxis
• Medication side effects (chemo, antibiotics, opioids)
• GI obstruction, ulcers, appendicitis
• Metabolic (diabetic ketoacidosis, uremia)
• Neurological (migraine, increased ICP, concussion)
• Toxins (alcohol, drugs)
• Psychogenic (anxiety, bulimia)

Red Flags – Seek Emergency Care

• Hematemesis (blood) or coffee‑ground emesis
• Melena (black, tarry stools)
• Severe abdominal pain, rigidity
• Fever >38.3°C (101°F)
• Stiff neck, photophobia (meningitis)
• Altered mental status, lethargy
• Signs of dehydration (oliguria, dry mucosa, hypotension)
• Persistent >24 hrs (adults) or >12 hrs (children)

Supportive Care

• Sip clear fluids (oral rehydration solution)
• Small, bland meals (BRAT diet)
• Antiemetics (ondansetron, meclizine) if prescribed
• Rest, avoid triggers

Persistent or severe vomiting warrants medical evaluation for targeted treatment and hydration assessment.