Vomiting is not a pleasant experience for any child. For some, it can be traumatic not understanding at a young age why they can’t keep food down. Even for parents, unexplained vomiting can be stressful. That is why parents and guardians need to understand what causes kids to vomit and how to manage it at home.
Vomiting in Children: Common Causes
This is common in children but is not always a reason for parents to be worried. Vomiting can be caused by different factors. Before learning how to deal and manage with Children vomiting at home, knowing what are the common causes of why it happens in children is very important.
Acid Reflux
Yes, even children can have acid reflux. This can cause the child to cough too hard. And too much coughing may lead to vomiting.
Gastroenteritis
Also called the “stomach flu,” gastroenteritis can cause vomiting. Gastroenteritis is caused by an infection in the stomach or intestines. Some children may also experience fever, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In children, it can be due to overeating or food poisoning.
Food Allergy
A food allergy can cause the child to vomit. Most often, children with food allergies will experience other symptoms like itchy skin or facial swelling. Know what food the child is allergic to and make sure they steer clear of them.
Motion Sickness
Some children are highly sensitive to motion which can make them dizzy and lead to vomiting. If the parent has motion sickness, there is a high chance that the child has it too. This is often experienced during long car travels, by sea, or at fun park rides.
Managing Sudden Vomiting at Home
Parents need to know what to do when their child vomits. Managing these scary episodes at home should not be difficult. The majority of vomiting cases respond to home treatments. When the case is mild, do not be afraid to treat it at home.
Let the Stomach Rest
If the child has just vomited, don’t let them drink or eat anything for up to an hour. Let the stomach rest and allow the discomfort to subside. When the pain persists, it is best to seek medical help as soon as possible.
Increase Fluid Intake
It is very important to prevent dehydration by letting the child drink water once the stomach has rested. Ensure that their body has enough fluids. This can help them recover from vomiting and help avoid further complications.
Seek Medical Help
Even though vomiting is often not a cause to worry, it is still important to seek medical help when needed. If vomiting persists or when the child experiences other symptoms, go see a doctor as soon as possible. The child might need medical intervention especially when they are not getting any better after trying emergency home remedies.
Vomiting in Children: When Should You Worry?
When vomiting is accompanied by other symptoms, it should not be taken lightly. Parents should take action as soon as possible. Parents should not delay and take their child to be checked by a doctor if they have been experiencing these symptoms:
- High fever
- Severe abdominal pain
- Dehydration (dry mouth, lethargy, decreased urination)
- Persistent vomiting for 24 hours
- Can’t keep food or fluids down
- Signs of distress
- Blood in vomit
Vomiting in children can be a traumatic experience for them. While helping them get through it, reassure the child that this will pass. They need all the emotional support they can get at this moment. Don’t forget to prioritize their health and safety. See a doctor as soon as possible, especially when their condition is not getting any better.