Vomiting is a reflex response which causes the content of the stomach to be pushed out of the mouth and it is sometimes involuntary that can be caused by several conditions. Under normal conditions, vomiting stops immediately after all the contents of the stomach are expelled out of the mouth, but in some cases vomiting can be persistent and cannot be controlled.
[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wsng2f5Mk6w”]Vomiting can occur due to a gastric infection or eating a contaminated food, but uncontrollable vomiting is caused by different set of factors. Uncontrollable vomiting increases the risk of esophageal tear or internal bleeding and it is important to treat the condition promptly to prevent complications.
Causes of uncontrollable vomiting
- Infections of the stomach or food poisoning can cause uncontrollable vomiting and there is also a constant feeling of nausea, loss of appetite, fever and diarrhea.
- Some medications such as those used in chemotherapy and radiotherapy can cause uncontrollable vomiting and the symptoms remain after the treatment is completed.
- Pregnant women can also experience uncontrolled vomiting caused by hormonal changes of the body. These symptoms are usually present on the first trimester of pregnancy but sometimes it can continue throughout the pregnancy which is known as hyperemesis gravid which is a serious condition.
- Crohn’s disease, gallbladder disease and appendicitis can also cause uncontrolled vomiting.
- Injuries to the head or heart attack
- Severe dehydration or cyclic vomiting syndrome
- Hyperthyroidism, meningitis or streptococcal throat infection
- Depression, anxiety disorders, some eating disorders such as bulimia nervosa can cause uncontrolled vomiting.
- Kidney failure can cause uncontrolled vomiting
Treatment of uncontrolled vomiting
- Eat small amounts during meals at frequent duration throughout the day and eat in a slow and steady manner.
- Eat foods that can be easily digested such as boiled vegetables and cooked pulses. The individual should avoid heavy foods such as chicken, grains, fruits and meats.
- Avoid eating warm foods. The individual should eat foods that are at room temperature or cold.
- Sit in an erect position for at least 30 minutes after eating a meal. It is important to take some time to rest after eating a meal and do not lie down.
- Whenever there is an urge to vomit, drink soda or fresh fruit juices since these can help in suppressing the urge to vomit.
If uncontrollable vomiting still persists, it is best to seek medical help immediately.
Other remedies for treating uncontrolled vomiting
- Using ginger helps with the digestive system and possesses natural anti-emetic properties in preventing vomiting. Mix a teaspoon of ginger juice with lemon juice and drink several times in a day. Another option is ginger tea that is mixed with honey or use fresh ginger with or without honey.
- Boil a cup of rice in 1 ½ cup of water and strain the solution and drink. This can help minimize the urge to vomit that is usually triggered by gastritis.