As a parent or a parent, there is nothing more heartbreaking than seeing your child vomit. But even if there is no fever, there are many questions that come to mind. "Why on earth is this happening?", "Is it a stomach ache?", "Did I eat something wrong?" You may be wondering. Don't worry, this is something that happens to many parents. There can be simple reasons for vomiting without a fever, as well as reasons that require a little concern. Let's talk about them one by one.
What are the main reasons for this?
When we look at the other symptoms that come with vomiting without a fever, it's easier to figure out what the cause is. Let's look at the main causes.
1. Stomach Flu
Although many people call it the "Stomach Flu," it's not actually the flu we get. The medical name for it is Gastroenteritis . Simply put, it's an infection of the intestines.
This is often caused by viruses. For example, rotavirus or norovirus . Sometimes, it can also be caused by bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella . It is very contagious.
- It can be transmitted from an infected person.
- You can get infected by eating food that contains the virus.
- You can become infected if you touch a surface with the virus and then touch your mouth or nose without washing your hands.
Symptoms begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus. In addition to vomiting, you can expect symptoms such as diarrhea (watery stools), nausea, and stomach cramps . Most children recover within 1 to 3 days.
2. Food Allergy
Imagine that your baby has been vomiting for a while after eating something new. It could be a food allergy. Sometimes, there may be only vomiting, but other symptoms may also appear.
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Persistent cough
- Wheezing (making a 'cheese-cheese' sound when breathing)
- Difficulty swallowing
90% of food allergies are related to these foods:
- Peanut
- Tree nuts like almonds and walnuts
- Fish
- Shellfish like shrimp and crab
- Eggs
- Cow's milk
- Wheat
- Soy
Especially for young babies: Very young babies can develop a condition called FPIES (Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome) when they are first introduced to cow's milk, soy, and some grains. They will vomit several times within 2-6 hours of eating. They may also have blood in their stool. If you suspect this, see a doctor immediately.
3. Food Poisoning
This is different from an allergy. If there are germs in the food we eat, it can cause food poisoning. These bacteria can be found in food that is not cooked properly or stored properly.
- Meat, chicken
- Eggs
- Seafood
- Vegetables that haven't been washed properly (like lettuce)
Vomiting can begin within a few hours of eating toxic food, and can last for a day or two. Vomiting is usually accompanied by nausea, watery diarrhea, and abdominal pain .
| Reason | Main features | Things to watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach infection (Gastroenteritis) | Vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ache. Maybe a slight fever. | Prevent dehydration in the child. Give fluids like Jeevani. |
| Food Allergy | Vomiting, skin rashes, and difficulty breathing immediately after eating. | If you have difficulty breathing, it is an emergency. Seek medical advice immediately. |
| Food Poisoning | Vomiting, diarrhea, severe stomach pain. Occurs after eating suspicious food. | Prevent the child from becoming dehydrated. Seek medical advice if severe. |
| Concussion | Symptoms such as vomiting, headache, blurred vision, etc. after a head injury. | This is an emergency. Take the child to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. |
Could there be other reasons?
Yes, there are several other reasons.
4. Concussion
Children bump their heads when they are running, jumping, or learning to walk. This is normal. However, we need to be aware of the symptoms of a condition called concussion after a head injury. Vomiting is one of the symptoms.
- Loss of consciousness
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty walking
- Confusion
- Stumbling while speaking
- Difficulty waking from sleep
Very important: If you are vomiting after a head injury, do not ignore it. You should see a doctor immediately. You may be referred directly to the Emergency Department (ETU) .
5. Intestinal Obstruction
In newborns, it can be difficult to tell the difference between spitting up and vomiting. Vomiting usually comes on suddenly. If your baby is vomiting frequently, it could be a sign of a blockage in the intestines. It could also be a condition called pyloric stenosis , which is a blockage in the passageway from the stomach to the esophagus. Both of these are serious conditions and require immediate medical attention.
6. Some medications
Some medications can cause vomiting if taken on an empty stomach. Also, some medications can cause vomiting as a side effect if taken in excess (overdose). Examples include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, some asthma medications, and iron tablets.
Warning: Do not give any medicine to a child without the advice of a doctor. If you have even the slightest suspicion that you have given too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
7. Motion Sickness
Some children vomit when riding in cars or buses, right? The reason is that the messages to the brain are confused because there is a mismatch between what the eyes see (movement) and what the body feels. This may also be a hereditary thing.
8. Migraines
About 10% of school-age children have migraines. The headaches are often accompanied by vomiting. They can also be accompanied by dizziness, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.
9. Stress
Yes, it's true. Some babies vomit when they're stressed. It could be because they're stressed out from another illness (like an ear infection). Or they might vomit after crying for a long time.
10. Ear Infections
When fluid builds up inside the ear due to an ear infection, it affects the body's balance. This can also cause nausea and vomiting, similar to motion sickness.
Take-Home Message
- There can be many reasons why a child may be vomiting without a fever. So don't panic, and be aware of other symptoms that accompany vomiting.
- A child who is vomiting is at high risk of dehydration. So give fluids and other things like jeevani little by little.
- Never give any medication you feel like giving without knowing the exact cause of vomiting.
- If your child vomits blood, vomits after hitting their head, is excessively sleepy, or has severe stomach pain , seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any doubts or fears, the best thing to do is to talk to your doctor.
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