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Is it normal for my child to vomit a lot?

It’s very common for young children to vomit quite often. However, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the reasons why vomiting occurs so you can help your child in the right way if they are suffering.

Motion sickness

If you think motion sickness could be the problem, there are a few things you can do to help your child feel better. Make sure he keeps calm and still, and suggest looking through the window while you travel instead of at a book or game. You could also provide a light snack to keep hunger pangs under control.

Colds and chest infections

The congestion and excess phlegm and mucus that comes with colds and infections can cause vomiting. This is due to both the blockages around the back of the nose and throat, and the irritation caused to the stomach by the mucus. You can help by using a bulb syringe to clear the nose. It may sound odd, but it may be necessary as children often don’t master blowing their noses until they’re over three years old. You can also give him a child-friendly decongestant to reduce the amount of mucus produced.

Poisonous substances

If you think your child’s vomiting is being caused by the consumption of a drug, toxic plant, herb, or chemical call the emergency services on 999 immediately.

How can I tell if it's something serious?

Vomiting can occasionally signal a more serious problem, such as an infection in the respiratory system, the urinary tract or the ear. It can even be a symptom of appendicitis, meningitis or pneumonia. Call your doctor if sustained vomiting is accompanied by any of the symptoms below:

• A fever of over 39°C.
• Severe abdominal pain centred around the navel and then moving to the lower right side of the abdomen could signal appendicitis.
• A swollen, tender abdomen which could indicate a build-up of fluid or gas, a blocked intestine, a hernia, or some other problem in the digestive tract.
• Lethargy or severe irritability can be symptoms of lead poisoning.
• Convulsions are involuntary movements in your child's muscles and could be due to a serious infection, fever or a form of epilepsy.
• Any signs of dehydration, including decreased urination, dark urine, and dry lips and mouth.
• Blood or bile (a green substance) in the vomit. A small amount is nothing to worry about, but call your doctor if your toddler continues to have blood in his vomit.

Should I give my child any medications to help him feel better?

• Don't give your child any anti-nausea medications, either prescription or over-the-counter, unless your paediatrician recommends them, and never give any medications containing aspirin to help relieve your toddler's symptoms.
• You can try using some soothing herb teas such as chamomile, peppermint or ginger, if your toddler will swallow them.