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Symptom Checker

Vomiting in Children

Vomiting is the forceful emptying of stomach contents through the mouth. It is different from mild spit-up or reflux.

Stomach viruses are a common cause of vomiting in children. Food poisoning, other infections, migraine, motion sickness, medicines, food reactions, intestinal problems and many other illnesses can also cause vomiting.

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AAP Guide to Vomiting in Children

The AAP guide below explains what to offer, how to watch for dehydration, and when vomiting needs medical care.

AAP Symptom CheckerVomiting

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Your child cannot keep fluids down or is drinking much less than usual.
  • Your child urinates much less, has a very dry mouth or seems unusually sleepy.
  • Vomiting continues, becomes more frequent or comes with significant stomach pain.
  • Your baby is very young or you are concerned about dehydration.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child vomits blood or bright green fluid.
  • Your child is confused, very difficult to wake or too weak to stand.
  • Your child may have swallowed poison or a dangerous object.
  • Your child has severe abdominal pain or another life-threatening symptom.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on stomach and bowels

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms