Chronic Vomiting in Children

Vomiting occurs when the contents of the stomach are expelled out of the mouth and sometimes the nose. Children who vomit chronically experience vomiting that often occurs with no warning. This condition is a nuisance and a concern for children and their parents.

Effects

• Children who experience chronic vomiting will vomit severely several times per hour. They will have pain in the abdomen, dizziness, and light sensitivity.

Causes

• Causes of chronic vomiting in children include excitement, stress, colds, allergies, and gastroesophageal reflux.

Identification

• Identifying the cause of chronic vomiting in a child is difficult because there are no tests available to diagnose the condition. A doctor must look at the child's medical history and do a physical exam to determine what events led up to the vomiting.

Treatments

• Treatments for chronic vomiting include rest, fluids, and medications to control nausea.

Complications

• Children who suffer from chronic vomiting can become dehydrated when the condition is severe. Their esophagus may become irritated and their teeth may decay from the acid in the vomit.