When to go to the emergency room for vomiting

No one likes feeling queasy, so it’s hard to think of nausea and vomiting as a good thing. But really, it’s the body’s way of getting rid of harmful substances. However, when nausea leads to repetitive vomiting, it can be a sign of infection, allergies or pregnancy — and can quickly become a medical concern.

While most cases of vomiting aren’t serious and will resolve within a day, there are times when you should head to the emergency room. Learn to recognize the signs, so you can get the help you need when an emergency happens.

What causes vomiting?

Nausea and vomiting can be triggered by many different causes. Some common causes of vomiting include:

• Food allergies
• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
• Migraine headaches
• Morning sickness
• Motion sickness
• Stomach infections, including foodborne illness

While many of these issues aren’t serious and will usually resolve on their own, some causes of vomiting can be more dangerous, including:

• Appendicitis 
• Bowel obstruction
• Concussion
• Gallbladder infection
• Pancreatitis
• Poisoning
• Tumors or cancer
• Ulcers

Treating vomiting at home

Nausea and vomiting are extremely common for both children and adults and can usually be treated at home. Here are few suggestions:

• Avoid solid foods. You may not feel like eating or be able to keep much food down. It’s best to stay away from solid foods until your vomiting stops and slowly add bland foods like bananas, toast and rice back into your diet. 
• Stay hydrated. Repeated vomiting can quickly lead to dehydration which can become a medical emergency. The American Red Cross recommends drinking clear liquids like water in small amounts. You can also try oral supplements to restore your electrolytes. 

If you are concerned about vomiting, you can also check in with your primary care provider via an in-person or telehealth visit. They may be able to help diagnose your condition and prescribe treatment to ease your symptoms. You can also visit an urgent care near you during nights, weekends or if appointments are not available with your provider. 

When vomiting is an emergency

Most vomiting is not a cause for concern. However, you should go to the emergency room if your vomiting lasts for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by:

• Abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Blood in the vomit (bright red, maroon, dark brown or black in color)
• Headache or stiff neck
• Inability to keep fluids down for more than 12 hours
• Ingested poison

Repetitive vomiting can also lead to dehydration. If you’re dehydrated from excessive vomiting, head to the emergency room right away for treatment. According to the National Institutes of Health, signs of dehydration can include:

• Confusion
• Decreased urination
• Dry mouth, lips or skin
• Increased thirst
• Rapid pulse
• Sunken eyes

Get the emergency care you need

Sometimes a trip to the ER is necessary, and in that case, don't hesitate to head there. Other times, an urgent care facility can get you the help you need. If you or a loved one is experiencing a medical emergency, the most important thing is to not delay care.