Ultimate Guide to Children's Vomit: What Are the Causes and Treatments

Vomit US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Children vomit

By Camille Hutchison , Parent Herald Oct 22, 02:17 pm

Vomits are typical for children, but it still appears worrisome for parents. Today's Parent reported that motion sickness is one of the common factors for vomiting and affects 50 percent of kids who sometimes feel sick to their stomach due to moving cars or planes, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Moreover, occasional vomiting is one of the common things for children, particularly when a kid is sick. On the other hand, recurring or chronic vomiting may be a cause for concern. According to the data published by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, any extended period of vomiting is a main reason to see a primary care provider.

Vomiting is a more forceful ejection of food directly from the stomach entailing strong muscle contractions in the abdomen and diaphragm. A toddler vomiting is basically uncomfortable and immediately needs medication and assistance, particularly those children who still cannot speak as they can't point out what hurts them or what part of their body is painful.

What could be the cause of vomiting in children?

Usually, one of the top concerns when a child is vomiting is dehydration, as they will likely feel thirsty afterward. They would also want that gross taste out of the mouth. However, this doesn't mean they should be given a big glass of water, as it will only come right back up as it triggers the stomach.

Parents can offer an oral rehydration solution such as Pedialyte, which contains an accurate balance of sugar and salt to maximize fluid absorption. Moreover, many kids freak out when they throw up as they are also afraid of the feeling after vomiting. Today's Parent suggests soothing the child and gently rubbing their back while also acknowledging emotions and reminding them that it's okay and will soon be over.

Vomiting can also be the first symptom to indicate that a child is unwell and will determine that something is wrong. The impact of vomit depends on the child's age and development and how well they can describe how they truly feel. Furthermore, food poisoning or food allergy can also cause vomiting and hard coughing due to reflux.

According to Pregnancy Birth & Baby, vomiting can indicate more complicated and severe medical conditions such as appendicitis or an obstruction.

Treating vomit in young ones

Vomiting can be treated at home, and the most important is giving children plenty of fluids and ensuring they stay hydrated. Oral rehydration solution, formula, and breast milk can all be suitable. However, you must avoid giving kids beverages that contain a lot of sugar.

Ondansetron is the medication suggested to inhibit the initiation of the vomiting reflex in the periphery. MSD Manual Professional Version suggests that a single dose of ondansetron is safe and effective in children, specifically those with acute gastroenteritis.

Nonetheless, if vomiting lasts more than 12 hours for infants, more than 24 hours for kids below 2, and 48 hours for kids aged 2 and older, immediately call the child's doctor for medication, per Mayo Clinic.