Q: My 3-year-old keeps vomiting foam. Is it indigestion and should I continue giving sports drinks?

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Question:

Hello, my 39-month-old started vomiting around 6 PM. Earlier, they ate a rice cake and a chocolate bar. Initially, some food came up, but now it's just foam. There is no fever or diarrhea. I'm worried about dehydration, so I've been giving a sports drink, but my child vomits it right back up. Could this just be indigestion? Should I continue giving fluids?

Answer:

Hello, I understand you must be very worried about your 39-month-old's persistent vomiting.

⚠️ The current situation is concerning.

Vomiting for over 4 hours + vomiting foam requires immediate medical attention.

【Check Immediately】

• Is your child lethargic or slow to respond?

• Are their lips or the inside of their mouth dry?

• Are there tears when they cry?

【Right Now】

→ Go to the emergency room or an urgent pediatric clinic.

→ Stop giving sports drinks and do not give anything else by mouth.

→ Record the time and nature of the vomiting to show the doctor.

【Reasons to Go to the ER】

• Vomiting lasting more than 4 hours

• Vomiting foam (a sign that the stomach is empty)

• Inability to keep fluids down

• High risk of dehydration

While it could be indigestion, this level of persistent vomiting likely requires a medical evaluation and possibly IV fluids.

Please seek medical attention immediately. I hope your child feels better soon.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us