Acute Nausea and Vomiting
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
Acute means the nausea and vomiting starts suddenly, gets worse quickly, and lasts a short time. There are many possible causes of acute nausea and vomiting.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have chest pain.
- You have severe pain or cramping in your abdomen.
- Your vision is blurred.
- You are confused, have a high fever, or a stiff neck.
- You have bright red blood coming from your rectum.
- Your vomit smells like bowel movement.
Return to the emergency department if:
- You have a severe headache or pain.
- You are dizzy, cold, and thirsty, and your eyes and mouth are dry.
- You are urinating very little or not at all.
- You are dizzy or lightheaded when you stand up.
- You see blood or material that looks like coffee grounds in your vomit.
Call your doctor if:
- You continue to vomit for more than 48 hours.
- Your nausea and vomiting does not get better or go away after you use medicine.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- Medicines may be given to calm your stomach and stop your vomiting. You may also need medicines to help empty your stomach and bowels.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Manage your symptoms:
- Rest as much as you can. Too much activity can make your nausea worse.
- Drink more liquids to prevent dehydration. Take small sips. Try drinks such as ginger ale, lemonade, water, or tea. Your provider may recommend that you drink an oral rehydration solution (ORS). ORS contains water, salts, and sugar that are needed to replace the lost body fluids.
- Eat smaller meals, more often. Try bland foods and avoid spices or strong flavors
- Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol may upset or irritate your stomach.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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