Vomiting is the forceful throwing up of stomach contents through the mouth and is commonly associated with nausea. Vomiting itself is not an illness, but a sign of an underlying illness.

Causes of vomiting in children

Vomiting in children is mostly caused by gastroenteritis (i.e. the inflammation of the stomach and intestines), usually as a result of bacterial of viral infections. Vomiting caused by gastroenteritis usually begins suddenly and resolves quickly, often within 24 hours. Gastroenteritis in children caused by a virus can develop after consuming contaminated food or water, or by putting a contaminated object in the mouth. The spreading of this virus can be prevented by careful hygiene (including hand washing after going to the bathroom).

Other illnesses, such as infections, intestinal obstructions and uncontrolled diabetes also cause vomiting in children. Foods that are hard to digest (such as too many sweets), undercooked meat or fish, spoiled food and some medicines can also cause vomiting.

The spitting up of milk formula in infants (called gastroesophageal reflux) is not regarded the same as vomiting.

Can vomiting be dangerous for children?

Vomiting and associated diarrhoea can be harmful because they can result in dehydration. Young children can become dehydrated quickly and lost fluids and electrolytes need to be replaced as soon as possible.

Severe vomiting (vomiting most or all clear liquids and food), or vomiting together with symptoms of blood in the vomit, stools, diarrhoea or urine, a high fever, stiff neck or severe stomach pain are causes for concern and a health professional should be consulted.

Symptoms associated with vomiting

If vomiting is caused by gastroenteritis, the onset is usually sudden with stomach cramps, feelings of nausea and a decrease in appetite. Some children may also experience muscle aches. Vomiting with fever is an indication of a bacterial rather than a viral infection.

Although most children recover from nausea and vomiting without any treatment, you should contact your health care provider if you child is still vomiting or has diarrhoea after two days and shows the following signs of dehydration:

    • Is thirsty
    • Urinates less than usual or not at all
    • Cries without tears
    • Has a dry mouth
    • Seems confused and sleepy.

Depending upon the degree of dehydration, your child may be hospitalised for the intravenous administration of fluids and, if a bacterial cause is present, for appropriate antibiotics.

What you can do to help your child

Bed rest is recommended with easy access to the toilet or bedpan if necessary. Help your child to take small but frequent sips of water, fruit juice or broth, even when the vomiting has not yet stopped. Bland foods such as cereals, jelly, bananas and toast can gradually be added to the diet.

Our Employee Wellbeing Programme (EWP) is available 24 hours a day if you want to know more about vomiting in children.