What Are the Causes of Frequent Nausea & Vomiting in a Teenager?

Most teenagers will experience a bout of nausea from time to time, but recurring nausea and vomiting could signal a more significant issue that parents should get checked out.

Migraines

• According to Dr. Holly Phillips of the New York station of CBS News, 25 percent of teenagers suffer from recurring migraines, which includes not only painful headaches but an upset stomach and vomiting.

Eating Disorders

• Teens that struggle with bulimia nervosa often binge on their favorite foods, and then induce vomiting to purge themselves of all the food they just ate, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Pregnancy

• While teen pregnancy symptoms for teen girls are not too different from adult women, they often experience nausea and vomiting during the first few months of pregnancy, especially in the mornings.

Lactose Intolerant

• Some children and teens may discover that eating milk products gives them an upset stomach or makes them feel bloated. They have sensitivity to lactose, the sugar in milk, and will feel sick as long as they keep drinking it.

Treatment

• While treatment may vary on the reason for nausea and vomiting, the first thing you want to do is replenish your teen’s fluid with electrolytes, with something like Gatorade or fruit juice and start a bland diet.