Vomiting in Infants

Vomiting in Infants: When It’s More Than Just Spitting Up

Vomiting in infants (children 3–12 months old) is always a concerning symptom. Unlike the safe spitting up, which is normal for the first months, vomiting is a forceful, reflexive expulsion of a significant volume of stomach contents. It can be a sign of various conditions, ranging from a simple viral infection to serious surgical pathologies, and often carries the risk of rapid dehydration.

Most Common Causes of Vomiting

• Gastroenteritis (intestinal infection). This is the most common cause. Viruses (most often rotavirus) cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Vomiting is usually the first symptom, later followed by diarrhea and fever.
• Food poisoning. Consumption of low‑quality complementary foods.
• Severe cough or crying. Intense cough or hysteria can trigger the vomiting reflex.
• Increased intracranial pressure. Vomiting, especially in the morning and "projectile," may be a sign of neurological problems.
• Pyloric stenosis. Although more often diagnosed in newborns, this narrowing of the stomach outlet can appear later.

Main Danger — Dehydration

With repeated vomiting the child quickly loses fluid and electrolytes. This is especially dangerous for infants. Signs of dehydration that require immediate attention:

• Infrequent urination (dry diaper for more than 6 hours).
• Crying without tears, dry mouth.
• Sunken fontanelle and eyes.
• Extreme lethargy and sleepiness.

If these symptoms appear or if vomiting is relentless, contains blood or bile (green color), it is necessary to seek medical help immediately. Before the doctor’s examination, the main task is to gradually re‑hydrate the child, offering small amounts of fluid every 5–10 minutes. Read more about concerning conditions in the article on newborn health (principles are also relevant for infants).