Skip to content
My WebMD Sign In, Sign Up

Information and Resources

Font Size

Repeated vomiting in children

If your child vomits so often that he or she cannot drink or vomits every time he or she takes a drink, this is known as repeated vomiting. This type of vomiting makes it impossible for a child to hold down any fluids or solid food. The more episodes of vomiting that occur, the greater the chances that your child will become dehydrated. Your child has an even greater chance of becoming dehydrated if he or she also has an illness that causes diarrhea.

After your child vomits, wait 1 hour before giving him or her something to drink, such as diluted fruit juice or an oral rehydration solution. If your child vomits after taking a drink, wait about an hour before offering him or her more fluids.

A child who eats solid foods may have vomit that is the same color as something he or she recently ate, such as peas or squash. But vomit that is green and clearly has not been colored by food may indicate a blockage in the digestive tract, such as pyloric stenosis or a bowel obstruction.

AuthorSydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
EditorSusan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate EditorDaniel Greer
Associate EditorTracy Landauer
Primary Medical ReviewerMichael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical ReviewerWilliam M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last UpdatedJuly 1, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: July 01, 2009
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

Hot Topics

Health Solutions From Our Sponsors

WebMD Video: Now Playing

Click here to wach video: Dirty Truth About Hand Washing

Which sex is the worst about washing up? Why is it so important? We’ve got the dirty truth on how and when to wash your hands.

Click here to watch video: Dirty Truth About Hand Washing

Popular Slideshows & Tools on WebMD

Close up of eye
What's robbing your focus?
Woman sitting in front of UV lights
What you need to know.
Ra Management Get A Personalized Report
Assess your symptoms.
finger blood test
Ask questions and get answers.
Psoriasis
Bumps, rashes, and hives.
nurse helping woman on crutches
How much time to recover?
woman stretching
Must-see diet and fitness info.
fruit drinks
Foods that can help you focus.
child brushing his teeth
Your kids will find them.
man with cold on couch
How to feel better fast.
mother with children in park
Parenting tips for every age.
MS Overview
Recognizing symptoms.

Women's Health Newsletter

Find out what women really need.