Kusmak

Kusmak is a Turkish verb meaning to vomit, i.e., to expel stomach contents through the mouth. The corresponding noun is kusma. In medical contexts, the term vomiting or emesis is used in English. Kusmak describes the act itself and is commonly discussed in everyday speech as well as health-related explanations in Turkish.

Vomiting is a reflex controlled by the brain’s vomiting center, often triggered by nausea. Common causes include gastroenteritis, food poisoning, pregnancy, motion sickness, migraines, medication side effects, alcohol, and exposure to toxins. Symptoms associated with kusmak typically include nausea, retching, abdominal cramps, dizziness, and, in some cases, signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, reduced urination, or lightheadedness.

Most episodes resolve with supportive care and by treating the underlying cause. Management focuses on maintaining hydration through small sips or oral rehydration solutions, gradually reintroducing bland foods as symptoms improve, and avoiding solid food until vomiting stops. Anti-emetic medications may be used under medical supervision, depending on age and cause. Persistent vomiting, vomiting with blood or bile, high fever, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration, or vomiting in infants or individuals unable to keep fluids down require medical evaluation.

Prevention involves addressing known triggers where possible (for example, avoiding certain foods or motion sickness triggers), maintaining good hydration, and practicing general hygiene to reduce infections. Seek medical advice if vomiting recurs frequently or without an obvious cause.