Causes Of Vomiting In Children
Vomiting in children is a common occurrence that, in most cases, does not last more than one or two days and is not a sign of anything serious. In fact, the most common cause of vomiting in children is gastroenteritis, an infection of the intestine usually caused by a virus or bacteria. However, there are other triggers.
It is necessary to be cautious with this problem, as persistent vomiting episodes can sometimes cause the child to become dehydrated. One way to prevent it is through oral rehydration solution, which is a powder that is made into a drink and contains sugar and salts to help replace water and minerals lost through vomiting.
Children who are vomiting should continue to take small sips of liquids, such as water or broth. Fruit juice and sodas should be avoided until you feel better. If they are not dehydrated and have not lost their appetite, it could be good for children to eat solid foods as usual.
Causes of vomiting in children
Vomiting in children can be due to different causes. These are the most frequent:
1. Gastroenteritis
This condition is the first cause of vomiting in children. It is the most common digestive disorder among infants and is a serious cause of dehydration, causing an imbalance of chemicals in the blood due to loss of body fluids through vomit and feces.
It is also an inflammation of the digestive tract that causes vomiting, diarrhea or both. Sometimes it is accompanied by a fever or abdominal cramps and can last from two days to a week. It is the most recurrent infection in children, according to a study published in Polski Merkuriusz Lekarski.
Generally, gastroenteritis is caused by a viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. The best way to prevent it is by encouraging children to wash their hands constantly, as well as teaching them to avoid improper storage of contaminated food and water.
In most cases, rehydration fluids and solutions are given for recovery, as these have proven to be really effective. However, it is always necessary to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
2. Food allergies
Food allergies can also cause vomiting in children, as well as other symptoms, such as a skin rash or hives. Therefore, it is very important that you take into consideration the foods that cause your child to vomit and consult your doctor to find out if he is allergic to them.
Vomiting may be accompanied by diarrhea; episodes generally last two days at most. Also, among the foods that can create allergies and, therefore, vomiting in children, the following stand out: eggs, wheat, nuts, milk, fish and shellfish.
3. Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a painful inflammation of the appendix that causes severe abdominal pain that worsens over time. If you notice that your child has a gradually intensifying belly pain and you think it may be appendicitis, you should see a doctor immediately.
Unfortunately, in most cases of appendicitis in children, the appendix will need to be surgically removed as soon as possible.
4. Other infections
On the other hand, infections are also a common cause of vomiting in children; some can even be serious. In any case, if your child vomits repeatedly and has other symptoms such as fever, lethargy or pain, it is appropriate to see a doctor immediately.
Infections in children generally cause symptoms similar to those seen in adults and do not warrant special attention. They usually cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. However, they can also be treated with time and based on rest, rehydration and soft foods.
Vomiting is common in children
Finally, remember that vomiting in children is common and that you should not worry excessively. However, the ideal is that you take into account the causes that produce them so that you know how to act and when you have to visit the doctor.
Also, don’t forget that vomiting is unpleasant, but usually not harmful. On the other hand, continuous vomiting episodes can lead to dehydration, so it is important to make sure that the child gets enough fluids.
