Throwing up: when to go to the ER
Vomiting is usually from a stomach virus and passes in a day or two. The main danger is dehydration, especially in young children and older adults.
🔴 Go to the ER or call 911 if there is
- Signs of dehydration: no urine for 8 hours, no tears, very dry mouth, sunken eyes
- Vomiting blood or green fluid
- Severe belly pain
- Vomiting after a head injury
- Very sleepy or hard to wake
🟠 Get care today if there is
- Vomiting for more than 24 hours
- Cannot keep any fluids down for 8 hours
🟢 What helps at home
- Wait 30–60 minutes after vomiting, then give small sips of fluid every few minutes
- An oral rehydration drink works best
- Slowly return to bland food
Learn more from MedlinePlus, the U.S. National Library of Medicine: Vomiting →. This guide is general information for adults and caregivers. It is not medical advice, it cannot cover every case, and it is not a substitute for a clinician who can examine the person. When in doubt, seek care. FreeDoc is not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Library of Medicine.