What Are the Treatments for Vomiting?

Vomiting is never a fun act, and sometimes it can be very dangerous to your health. Whether you or your child is afflicted with this ailment, it's important to know what you can do to ease the pain and discomfort. Try learning a few methods and steps that could come in handy the next time you feel a queasy stomach coming on.

Discover the Source

• The first step in treating your vomiting is to find the source of what may be causing it. It could be numerous things including the flu, food poisoning, migraines, alcohol and pregnancy. Once you've zeroed in on the cause, you can figure out a solution, such as flu medicine for the flu, and also take steps to possibly prevent vomiting in the future.

No Solids

• For the duration of your vomiting you should stay away from solid foods, as your stomach is already having trouble without having to attempt, and fail, to digest. Stick to clear liquids such as water or ginger ale. Ginger ale is great for upset stomachs as it has calming properties that can help alleviate symptoms of nausea and vomiting. If you must eat something, stay away from sugary or rich foods, Saltine crackers eaten slowly are usually the best for an upset stomach, as they are gentle and have a little flavor for your taste buds.

Try an Antiemetic

• Antiemetic drugs are drugs often used for treating nausea and vomiting and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. The best antiemetic drugs for vomiting are those that contain bismuth subsalicylate, which can be found in Pepto Bismol, along with other drugs found at most drug stores. This chemical helps to soothe your stomach by coating the inside of it. These drugs are also great in treating other digestive ailments such as heartburn and diarrhea.

Try Baking Soda

• Another sure way to ease your vomiting woes is to try consuming a little baking soda. Mix about 2 to 3 tbsp. of baking soda with an 8-ounce glass of water, stir and drink. Baking soda is great because it neutralizes your stomach's acid, helping to calm it and prevent further nausea and vomiting. To add a little flavor, try adding a few drops of lime juice, which has also been found to soothe upset stomachs, to your baking soda mixture.

Avoid Irritants

• When your stomach is upset and you are vomiting, it's important to avoid certain culprits that can further stomach damage and even lead to more vomiting. These irritants include alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes, which all can cause damage and weaken your stomach and esophagus. If you do indulge in these substances, steer clear of them during your vomiting period and at least a day or two following.

Eat a Little Bread

• This method is only good if your vomiting is alcohol-induced; if you are vomiting due to a virus for instance, you'll probably just end up vomiting the bread you eat. Eating a carbohydrate such as bread is great for treating drunk vomiting because it helps your stomach to soak up the excess alcohol and liquids and gives your body some much-needed nourishment from something other than alcohol.

Warnings and Tips

• When taking a medication for your vomiting, never take more than the prescribed amount and always follow directions.
  If your vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, see your doctor immediately as it could be the sign of a serious underlying health problem and you could become severely dehydrated.