Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Occasional vomiting is common in babies and children, often from a tummy bug or feeding. The main risk is dehydration — and a few warning signs mean you should seek help quickly.
Reintroduce normal food gradually once vomiting settles
Watch wet nappies/urine as a sign of hydration
Rest and avoid fatty or sugary foods for a while
When to see a doctor urgently
Green (bile) or blood-stained vomit
Forceful, projectile vomiting in a young baby
Signs of dehydration: few wet nappies, sunken eyes, drowsiness
A swollen, hard or very painful tummy
Vomiting with a high fever, stiff neck, or a bad headache
Rehydration comes first. ORS in small frequent sips is the key treatment. Do not give anti-vomiting medicine to a child without a doctor’s advice. MedDroid gives general information, not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
How do I stop my baby vomiting?
Give small, frequent sips of ORS or milk rather than large feeds, and let the stomach rest. Most tummy bugs settle in a day or two — watch for dehydration.
When is vomiting an emergency in a child?
Green or bloody vomit, projectile vomiting in a young baby, a swollen painful tummy, or signs of dehydration or a stiff neck all need urgent care.
What is projectile vomiting?
Forceful vomiting that shoots out, especially in a young baby after feeds, can signal a blockage (like pyloric stenosis) and should be checked promptly.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.