Q: My child keeps projectile vomiting liquid while we are traveling abroad. What should I do?
- Myeongchan Kim
- May 25
- 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: We are currently traveling abroad, and my child has been continuously vomiting liquid. From this morning until now, they have projectile vomited water about 4 to 5 times. I bought some anti-nausea and gastroenteritis medicine from a local pharmacy, but they threw that up as well. Should we go to a local hospital, or is it safe to observe them a bit longer? If we wait and the vomiting stops, when can I give them food? My child keeps saying they are hungry despite being sick.
Answer: It must be incredibly stressful to see your child projectile vomiting multiple times and unable to keep medicine down, especially while you are traveling away from home.
When to visit a hospital immediately:
Please seek immediate medical attention at a local emergency room or clinic if you notice any of the following red flags:
• No urination for more than 8 hours
• Crying without tears or severely dry lips
• Severe lethargy, unusual weakness, or slow responses
• Severe abdominal pain or bloody stools
What you can do right now:
Rest the stomach: Stop all food and medicine immediately. Do not give your child anything by mouth for 1 full hour.
Start with tiny sips: After 1 hour of no vomiting, offer just 5 ml (about 1 teaspoon) of water.
Gradually increase: If they can keep that down without vomiting, slowly offer another 5-10 ml every 10 minutes.
Regarding feeding:
Even though your child is asking for food, giving them solid meals right now will likely trigger more vomiting. You must slowly progress over a 6 to 8-hour period in this order: small sips of water → clear fluids or oral rehydration solutions → bland, easily digestible foods like plain rice porridge.
If the projectile vomiting continues despite resting the stomach, or if you observe any signs of dehydration, please visit a local hospital or contact local emergency services immediately for an in-person medical evaluation.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
