Causes of Vomiting

Vomiting, also known as emesis or regurgitation, refers to the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth or, in some cases, the nose. Nausea, on the other hand, is the sensation that often precedes vomiting, although it does not always lead to it. In reality, both nausea and vomiting are symptoms that may accompany a variety of health conditions and are not classified as diseases in themselves. Numerous factors can contribute to their occurrence. Research indicates that vomiting occurs as a response to certain chemical changes in the brain. The brain contains various receptors that activate the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ), also referred to as the vomiting center, upon detecting toxins, gastrointestinal disturbances, or underlying medical conditions.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is among the most common causes of vomiting in adults, often resulting from a viral infection, such as norovirus or the consumption of contaminated food. Typically, vomiting is accompanied by diarrhea in such cases. It is noteworthy that the immune system can usually eliminate the infection within a few days, and some home remedies may alleviate symptoms during the recovery period.

Pregnancy

Many women experience what is commonly known as morning sickness during the early stages of pregnancy. This condition involves recurrent episodes of nausea and vomiting that can occur at various times throughout the day, typically developing during the first trimester and usually resolving between weeks 16 and 20 of gestation.

Inner Ear Disorders

Given the connection between the inner ear structures responsible for balance and the brain’s vomiting centers, disorders such as labyrinthitis or positional vertigo can lead to nausea and vomiting.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis presents with a variety of symptoms, the most significant being severe abdominal pain accompanied by vomiting. Immediate medical attention is essential if one experiences sudden and intense abdominal pain radiating to surrounding areas, as this may indicate a ruptured appendix. Surgical intervention for appendicitis is typically necessary.

Migraine

Vomiting often accompanies migraine attacks, typically subsiding once the headache resolves. In such cases, physicians may prescribe appropriate medications to relieve these symptoms.

Medication Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of various medications, including certain potent analgesics, antibiotics like erythromycin, chemotherapy agents used in cancer treatment, anesthesia, and exposure to certain types of radiation.

Psychological Disorders

Some psychological conditions can induce nausea and vomiting, which may be involuntary in situations such as stress-related vomiting (e.g., children experiencing anxiety about their first day of school) or deliberate in cases like bulimia nervosa, where the individual intentionally induces vomiting due to fears of weight gain.

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome

Cyclic vomiting syndrome is a rare health issue characterized by severe, recurrent episodes of nausea or vomiting interspersed with periods of normalcy. This condition often manifests during childhood and typically resolves with age. However, it can also begin in adulthood, particularly in cases of chronic marijuana use.

Chronic Nausea and Vomiting Syndrome

Chronic nausea and vomiting syndrome refers to persistent nausea and vomiting that occur without an identifiable physical or psychological cause. This disorder is thought to result from disrupted communication between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract and can last for several months, with symptoms occurring at least weekly. Diagnosis is made when specific causes for the continuous nausea and vomiting remain undetermined after thorough diagnostic testing over three months.

Other Causes

There are numerous other factors that can lead to vomiting, including:

Acute cholecystitis.
Alcohol consumption.
Intestinal obstruction, which may result from gallstones or hernias.
Food poisoning.
Central nervous system infections, such as meningitis.
Brain tumors.
Hydrocephalus.
Gastric bleeding.
Gastrointestinal disorders, including peptic ulcers, pancreatitis, liver diseases, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and celiac disease.
Travel, which may be associated with changes in diet and water.
Kidney stones causing obstruction between the kidneys and bladder.
Kidney infections.
Abnormal blood sugar levels.
Head injuries.
Food allergies, such as lactose intolerance or milk allergies.

Vomiting in Children

Vomiting in children can stem from various causes, often related to relatively benign conditions such as urinary tract infections, colds, gastroenteritis, or motion sickness. However, it can also indicate more serious issues like meningitis or appendicitis. It is important to note that spitting up small amounts of milk after feeding is normal in infants and is known as reflux.

Prevention of Vomiting

To prevent vomiting when experiencing nausea, one can rest in a suitable position, consume hard candies, suckers, and small amounts of clear juices like lemonade or apple juice while avoiding acidic juices like orange juice. Overall, the best method to prevent vomiting is to avoid infections and health issues. Here are some tips for preventing infections:

Maintain personal hygiene: Regularly clean contaminated surfaces, dispose of trash properly, and wash hands with soap and water before preparing or consuming food and after using the restroom.
Avoid sharing personal items: Refrain from sharing towels, toothbrushes, or clothing with others.
Avoid spreading infections: If infected and experiencing vomiting, disinfect surfaces touched, avoid preparing food for others for at least two days after symptoms cease, and refrain from using public pools for two weeks after symptoms disappear, especially when interacting with vulnerable individuals.
Refrain from alcohol: As alcohol can irritate the stomach and trigger nausea and severe vomiting.
Avoid stress: Employ relaxation techniques and ensure adequate rest and sleep, as stress-related headaches can lead to nausea and vomiting.
Reduce meal sizes: Consider smaller, more frequent meals every 2-3 hours to alleviate nausea and vomiting by preventing stomach fullness.
Consult a physician regarding medications: Seek professional advice on over-the-counter medications as they may contribute to various side effects, including nausea and vomiting.

Video on Causes of Vomiting After Eating

Some individuals occasionally face vomiting immediately after eating. What causes this?