Published on: 7/4/2025
How much vomiting should prompt a visit to the hospital?
If someone vomits after a head injury, especially more than once, they should go to the hospital to check for serious problems.
What brings you in today?
Explanation
Vomiting can be a sign of a serious problem after a head injury. Research shows that vomiting, especially repeated vomiting, can sometimes mean there is a risk of a brain injury.
When to Go to the Hospital:
- After a Head Injury: If someone hits their head and vomits, it is important to see a doctor.
- Repeated Vomiting: If vomiting happens more than once, it is more concerning.
Why It Matters:
- Brain Safety: After hitting the head, the brain might be hurt. Vomiting can be a sign that something is wrong inside the head.
- Checking Inside the Head: Doctors can do special tests to make sure the brain is okay.
It is always better to be safe and have a doctor check if there is any concern after a head injury. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek medical help promptly.
(References)
- Hugenholtz H, Izukawa D, Shear P, Li M, & Ventureyra EC. (1987). Vomiting in children following head injury. Child's nervous system : ChNS : official journal of the International Society for Pediatric Neurosurgery, 3427567.
- Harper JA, Klassen TP, Balshaw R, Dyck J, Osmond MH, & Pediatric Emergency Research Canada Head Injury Study Group. (2020). Characteristics of vomiting as a predictor of intracranial .... CJEM, 32513343.
- Nee PA, Hadfield JM, Yates DW, & Faragher EB. (1999). Significance of vomiting after head injury. Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry, 10201418.
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