Quick answer
What could vomiting mean?
Vomiting is commonly caused by a stomach bug and often settles within 1 to 2 days. Take frequent small sips of fluid and eat when able. Get urgent help if you cannot keep fluid down, have signs of dehydration, severe pain, blood or coffee-ground vomit, green vomit, confusion or breathing difficulty.
Common causes
Stomach infections and food poisoning are common. Other causes include migraine, pregnancy, medicines, motion sickness, inner-ear problems and urinary infections.
Prevent dehydration
Prioritise fluid over food. A pharmacist can recommend oral rehydration sachets. Continue breastfeeding and ask for advice promptly about babies or young children.
Prevent spreading infection
Wash hands with soap and water, clean shared surfaces and avoid preparing food for others while ill. Alcohol hand gel does not reliably kill every stomach-bug virus.
Common questions about vomiting
- What should I drink after vomiting?
- Take small frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solution. Avoid large drinks, fruit juice and fizzy drinks if they worsen symptoms.
- When can I eat again?
- Eat when you feel able. Start with foods you tolerate and avoid very fatty or spicy meals initially.
- How long should vomiting last?
- Vomiting from a typical stomach bug often stops within 1 to 2 days. Longer or worsening illness needs advice.