Vomiting is a reflex response, which causes the contents of the stomach to be pushed out through the mouth. This reflex is often involuntary and is associated with a host of different conditions. Under normal condition, vomiting stops immediately as the content of the stomach is pushed out of the mouth, however in some cases vomiting may be persistent and uncontrollable.
There are several causes which are associated with excessive and uncontrollable vomiting. While vomiting itself may resolve spontaneously and may not require medical attention, there are certain cases of uncontrolled vomiting which may require immediate medical attention.
Vomiting is a reflux phenomenon, which causes sudden contraction of the stomach and ejection of the stomach content through the esophagus, out of the mouth. Vomiting may occur due to gastric infection or due to contaminated food, however uncontrollable vomiting is associated with a completely different set of factors.
Uncontrollable vomiting however can increase the risk of esophageal tear or internal bleeding and hence it is very important to identify the cause and treat the condition promptly.
What Are The Causes Of Uncontrollable Vomiting?
Here are some common causes that are associated with uncontrollable vomiting.
- Food poisoning or stomach infection may result in uncontrollable vomiting and constant feeling of nausea. This condition is associated with other symptoms like loss of appetite, diarrhea and fever.
- Certain medications including chemotherapy medication and radiotherapy can also lead to uncontrollable vomiting. These symptoms reside after the treatment is completed.
- Uncontrollable vomiting is also experienced during pregnancy due to significant changes in the hormonal profile of the female. While these symptoms are usually limited to the first trimester, these symptoms may continue throughout pregnancy. This condition is referred to as hyperemesis gravida and is a serious medical condition.
- There are host of other factors which include gallbladder disease, Crohn’s disease and appendicitis.
- Uncontrollable vomiting may also be linked with other conditions like heart attack or head injury (especially concussions).
- Anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders like bulimia nervosa, etc are associated with uncontrolled vomiting.
- Severe dehydration or cyclic vomiting syndrome are also some of the important causes of uncontrollable vomiting.
- Hyperthyroidism, Meningitis or streptococcal throat infection can also lead to uncontrollable vomiting.
- Kidney failure is also linked with the manifestation of these symptoms.
How To Stop Uncontrollable Vomiting?
It is very important to diagnose the cause of uncontrollable vomiting, in order to treat the condition promptly. However here are some simple tips that can help manage the condition promptly,
- Eat small quantities of meal at frequent durations throughout the day and eat slowly.
- Consume easily digestible foods like boiled vegetables, cooked pulses, etc. Avoid heavy foods like grains, chicken, meat and fruits.
- Avoid consuming warm food, instead consume food at room temperature or when cold.
- Sit erect for at least half an hour after you have your meals. While it is important for you to take adequate amount of rest after a meal, avoid lying down.
- Drink soda or fresh fruit juices, whenever you have an urge to vomit. These drinks help suppress the urge.
While these treatment options will help control the vomiting for a short duration of time, it is always important to seek prompt medical advice and take medications. Excessive vomiting can have detrimental effect on your health.