The vomiting reflex is mediated by both the autonomic and somatic systems, and consists of two phases: Prodomal phase (pre-ejection): Relaxation of gastric muscles followed by small intestinal retrograde peristalsis; Ejection phase: Comprises of
In association with retching and vomiting, the striated muscle of the esophagus contracts longitudinally, pulling the relaxed proximal stomach into the thoracic cavity forming a funnel from stomach to esophagus.
Types of Vomiting
Dry Heaves: Dry heaves are the type of vomit where the feeling is present, but nothing comes out. It is termed as non-productive vomit. Blood-Streaked Vomit: Blood streaked vomiting causes a cut in the esophagus or stomach. Here, vomit comes out filled with blood, having red or dark-brown colour.
Do not eat or drink anything for several hours after vomiting. Sip small amounts of water or suck ice chips every 15 minutes for 3-4 hours. Next, sip clear liquids every 15 minutes for 3-4 hours. Examples include water, sports drinks, flat soda, clear broth, gelatin, flavored ice, popsicles or apple juice.
Third, the vomiting process releases chemicals in your body to make you feel better. So that “I feel better” feeling after throwing up is not just your imagination — it's your biology working.
The digestive tract correlates are (1) relaxation of the upper stomach and contraction of the lower pharynx, (2) retrograde giant contraction, and (3) the pharyngo-esophageal responses during retching and vomitus expulsion.
Here's what to do: First, when you're feeling nauseous, avoid lying down. When you lie flat on your back, gastric juices can rise and increase feelings of nausea and overall discomfort. Instead, when you're nauseous, try reclining with your upper body elevated and moving around as little as possible.
Food allergies. Infections of the stomach or bowels, such as the "stomach flu" or food poisoning. Leaking of stomach contents (food or liquid) upward (also called gastroesophageal reflux or GERD) Medicines or medical treatments, such as cancer chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
When the brain receives enough signals, it will send a return signal to your stomach to start the process of vomiting. After receiving the vomiting signal, your stomach muscles contract all at once, which squeezes everything while increasing the pressure.
Sleeping on your side with your head raised can ease symptoms and keep you from choking on your vomit, if you're unable to make it to the bathroom in time.
Contrary to how yucky it may feel, it's not great to brush your teeth right after vomiting. It's best to swish water around your mouth with a touch of baking soda after vomiting. We recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing. Brushing immediately after rubs the stomach acid on teeth.
After your vomiting stops, you may feel weak and lethargic. This is quite common and happens because you haven't eaten in a while. Vomiting may also have left you dehydrated. You also lose electrolytes and salts when vomiting.
Self-care. Drink lots of fluids if possible, but start slowly with 1–2 sips every 5 minutes. If you become nauseated, wait 20–30 minutes and then begin again. Wait 20–30 minutes to be sure you don't have more vomiting or diarrhea.
PROPERLY WASH YOUR HANDS - AND IF POSSIBLE TAKE A SHOWER AND CHANGE YOUR CLOTHES. Discard any food that may have been exposed in the affected area.
Seek immediate medical attention
You have signs or symptoms of dehydration — excessive thirst, dry mouth, infrequent urination, dark-colored urine and weakness, or dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing. Your vomit contains blood, resembles coffee grounds or is green.
If you've been vomiting for more than two days (48 hours), it may be time to seek medical help, especially if you have any of these additional symptoms: Blood or what looks like coffee grounds in your vomit. A high fever. Stiff neck.