What could be the reason for coughing and vomiting together?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Coughing and vomiting often occur together during severe coughing fits, most commonly caused by asthma or whooping cough (pertussis). In asthma, airway inflammation triggers intense coughing that can strain the stomach and induce vomiting. Whooping cough produces violent, uncontrollable coughing spasms that frequently end in a "whoop" sound and post-cough vomiting, especially in children.

Because these conditions share symptoms with other respiratory illnesses—and because untreated asthma or pertussis can lead to serious complications—identifying the underlying cause quickly matters. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you pinpoint likely causes based on your specific symptoms, understand urgency, and decide whether to see a doctor. It takes only a few minutes and gives you clear, personalized next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover what’s causing your cough and vomiting See if coughing and vomiting need care today Find out if cough and vomiting are serious Discover OTC relief for cough and vomiting Find a doctor for cough and vomiting Learn home remedies for cough and vomiting Understand likely causes of coughing and vomiting

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Explanation

Coughing and vomiting together can occur due to severe coughing fits. In children, asthma can cause this, as noted in a study where posttussive emesis, or vomiting after coughing, was identified as a symptom (Reference 1). This happens because the coughing is so strong that it triggers the vomiting reflex.

Another condition that can cause coughing and vomiting is whooping cough, or pertussis. In both children and adults, whooping cough is known for causing intense coughing spells that can lead to vomiting (References 2 and 3). These coughing fits are often very severe and can make it hard to breathe, leading to vomiting as the body tries to clear the airway.

Both asthma and whooping cough can cause significant discomfort and require medical attention to manage symptoms effectively. If someone is experiencing these symptoms, our free symptom checker can help you understand what might be causing them and when to seek care from a healthcare provider.

(References)

Turbyville J, Gada S, Payne K, Laubach S, Callahan CW, & Nelson M. (2011). Posttussive emesis as a symptom of asthma in children. Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology : official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, 21277515.
Moore A, Ashdown HF, Shinkins B, Roberts NW, Grant CC, Lasserson DS, & Harnden A. (2017). Clinical Characteristics of Pertussis-Associated Cough in .... Chest, 28511929.
Postels-Multani S, Schmitt HJ, Wirsing von König CH, Bock HL, & Bogaerts H. (1995). Symptoms and complications of pertussis in adults. Infection, 7499001.

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