The urge to vomit upon waking up is a symptom that may worry parents. After all, what can cause this feeling? Is it severe? When is it necessary to see a doctor?
When your child wakes up vomiting in the morning, it’s natural to worry, and it’s important to be aware of other symptoms that may be present. In this article, we will talk about the possible causes of vomiting upon waking in children, how to identify the warning signs and what to do to alleviate the symptoms.
My child woke up vomiting in the morning, what could it be?
In most cases, vomiting upon waking is caused by:
- Poor digestion: This is the most common cause of vomiting in children. It can be caused by eating too fast, eating fatty or spicy foods, or eating foods that the child is not used to.
- Viruses: Gastrointestinal viruses are the most common infections in children. They can cause vomiting, diarrhea, fever and other symptoms.
- Food allergy: Food allergies can cause vomiting, diarrhea, itching, swelling and other symptoms.
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In rarer cases, a child might be vomiting in the morning due to more serious conditions, such as:
- Meningitis: Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It can cause vomiting, fever, headache and stiff neck.
- Appendicitis: Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, an organ located in the abdomen. It can cause vomiting, stomach pain and fever.
- Serious diseases of the central nervous system: Some diseases of the central nervous system, such as tumors, hydrocephalus and encephalitis, can cause vomiting.
How to identify the warning signs
It is important to be aware of warning signs that may indicate a more serious condition. If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms, it is important to see a doctor immediately:
- Persistent vomiting (more than 24 hours)
- High fever (above 102.2°F / 39°C)
- Strong headache
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting with blood or bile
- Diarrhea with blood or mucus
- Tiredness or lethargy
- Irritability or constant crying
How to alleviate symptoms
If your child wakes up vomiting in the morning or has a feeling of retching when they wake up and the condition is mild, you can try some care at home to help them feel better:
- Offer clear liquids, such as water, coconut water or unsweetened fruit juice.
- Avoid giving solid foods until the vomiting stops.
- Keep your child hydrated.
Children vomiting in the morning can have several causes. It is essential to be aware of other symptoms and, if the urge to vomit persists, consult a doctor to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Remember, when it comes to your child’s health, it is best to seek proper medical advice.
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