Vomiting
Vomiting is very common during infancy and childhood and is usually caused by an illness or stomach upset. In infants it is important to distinguish between vomiting and “spitting up,” which is very typical in babies. Babies spit up if they are fed too fast or too much, and this is not considered to be a problem.
Mild vomiting in children likewise is not serious, but severe vomiting can strain the stomach and esophagus and may cause internal bleeding. Continual vomiting also can lead to dehydration, shock, or metabolic problems; if the vomited material is inhaled into the lungs it can cause PNEUMONIA. Intentional vomiting in teenagers (BULIMIA) can lead to tooth problems and electrolyte disturbances that can affect the heart’s function, and it can be fatal.