Nausea & Vomiting: What to Know
Nausea and vomiting are common and usually short-lived. Here's how to care for yourself and the signs that mean it's time to see a doctor.
Most often a short-lived stomach bug
Priority is staying hydrated
Can't keep fluids down? Get assessed
Children & older adults dehydrate faster
Nausea and vomiting are unpleasant but very common, and most often caused by something short-lived like a stomach bug. The main goals are staying hydrated and knowing when symptoms need a closer look.
Common causes
Viral stomach bugs (gastroenteritis) are a frequent cause, along with food that didn't agree with you, certain medications, motion, migraines, and many other causes. Most cases settle within a day or two.
Related readingFever in adultsNausea with fever? Here's when it needs attention.Caring for yourself
The priority is hydration — sip small amounts of fluids frequently rather than large amounts at once, and ease back into bland foods as you feel able. Rest helps. Watch for signs of dehydration, especially in children and older adults.
When to see a doctor
Seek care if vomiting is persistent (more than a day or two), you can't keep fluids down, you show signs of dehydration, or there's severe abdominal pain, a high fever, blood in the vomit, or vomiting after a head injury. Children and older adults can become dehydrated faster and should be watched closely.
How iCollab can help
Our walk-in physicians can assess you, often the same day, and advise on care or further evaluation — no family doctor required. For severe symptoms, seek urgent care.
This is general information, not medical advice.
Have a concern you'd like looked at?
Book with an iCollab physician, or ask at the walk-in clinic.
A closer look
As you scroll, each part highlights on the diagram. This is general education, not a diagnosis.
Stomach
Nausea and vomiting are often caused by a short-lived stomach bug that settles within a day or two.
Digestion
Food that didn't agree with you, medications, motion, and migraines are other common causes.
Upper abdomen
The priority is staying hydrated — small, frequent sips of fluid rather than large amounts at once.
Intestines
Persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, or severe pain need assessment.
Nausea & Vomiting: What to Know — FAQ
How do I stay hydrated when vomiting?+
When should I see a doctor?+
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