Intermittent Vomiting in Children: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor

Vomiting occurs when food contents from the stomach are regurgitated out of the mouth, often without warning. Children who experience intermittent vomiting will vomit on and off throughout a period of time.

Effects

• Children with intermittent vomiting will not be able to keep foods or fluid down. The vomiting may also be accompanied by nausea, cramping and pain in the abdomen.

Causes

• Intermittent vomiting in children has many causes, including food poisoning, influenza and reflux.

Identification

• To identify the cause of intermittent vomiting in children, a doctor will ask what events led up to the vomiting and take a complete medical history. The doctor will also do a physical examination and take a blood and urine sample.

Treatment

• Treatment of intermittent vomiting includes clear fluids and bland foods. If the vomiting does not cease, a doctor may prescribe medication.

Prevention/Solution

• To prevent vomiting, children should eat a well-balanced diet that does not contain a high amount of sugar.