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Nausea and vomiting: causes, warning signs & what to do
Feeling sick and vomiting are usually short-lived — a bug or something you ate. The concern is dehydration and a few warning patterns.
Common causes of nausea and vomiting
- Stomach bug (gastroenteritis) or food poisoning
- Pregnancy (morning sickness)
- Migraine
- Motion sickness
- Medicines or alcohol
- Appendicitis, gallstones or other abdominal problems
When to see a doctor urgently
- Vomiting blood, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds — seek urgent care
- Signs of dehydration: little urine, dizziness, dry mouth
- Vomiting with severe abdominal pain or a rigid tummy
- A severe headache, stiff neck or confusion with vomiting
Frequently asked questions
How do I stay hydrated when vomiting?
Sip small amounts of water or oral rehydration solution frequently rather than large drinks. Seek help if you cannot keep fluids down or show signs of dehydration.
When should vomiting be checked?
If it lasts more than 1–2 days, contains blood, comes with severe pain or dehydration, or with a severe headache and stiff neck, get medical care.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
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.