Vomiting

Overview

Vomiting is a common symptom. Vomiting is defined as the forceful expulsion of the contents of the stomach. It can be voluntary or involuntary. It happens due to many reasons. Some are caused by problems in the gastrointestinal tract and some may be problems not related to the gastrointestinal tract. Examples of the causes are indigestion, overeating, motion or seasickness, stress, pregnancy, alcohol consumption, food poisoning, gastrointestinal infections, gastric ulcers, side effects from medications, headaches, head trauma or injury, effects of chemotherapy and bulimia. Vomiting can also be associated with other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting blood, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Vomiting may lead to serious complications if it occurs repetitively. Some of the complications include dehydration, metabolic derangements, malnutrition, throat irritation, confusion, and coma. Vomiting can be treated by treating the underlying cause. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.