Q: My 42-month-old vomited and is now very lethargic and constantly sleeping. Should we see a doctor?
- Myeongchan Kim
- 14 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 42-month-old child is constantly sleeping. Yesterday early morning, they projectile vomited, possibly from indigestion after dinner. They acted normally throughout the morning, but by the afternoon, they became extremely lethargic and now only want to sleep. Their body temperature is normal, but they just seem drained and want to stay asleep. Could this be from indigestion, or should I take my child to the hospital?
Answer:
It is completely understandable that you are worried about your child constantly sleeping after an episode of vomiting. This situation requires careful observation.
Please assess the following immediately at home:
• How your child responds when you wake them up (whether they can make eye contact and answer you).
• When they last urinated.
• Whether their lips or the inside of their mouth appear dry.
You should go to the Emergency Room if:
• Your child does not wake up properly or does not respond when you try to rouse them.
• They have not urinated for more than 8 hours.
• They continue to vomit or complain of abdominal pain.
If the situation seems stable enough to monitor at home:
• Gently wake your child every 30 minutes to check their responsiveness.
• Offer water or an electrolyte drink frequently in small amounts (2-3 sips each time they wake up).
• Let them rest in a comfortable position, but avoid letting them fall into an overly deep, unresponsive sleep.
While it is normal for a child to feel tired and sleepy after an upset stomach and vomiting, excessive drowsiness that is out of the ordinary can be a sign of dehydration or other underlying medical issues. If there is no improvement within 2-3 hours, please make sure to visit a doctor for an in-person evaluation.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
