projectilevomiting

Projectile vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents that travels a significant distance, often spraying outward. Unlike typical vomiting, which may involve gagging and nausea beforehand, projectile vomiting can occur with little or no warning. The force of the expulsion is due to a sudden and strong contraction of abdominal muscles.

Several conditions can lead to projectile vomiting. In infants, it is a common symptom of pyloric stenosis, a condition where the muscle at the outlet of the stomach thickens and prevents food from passing into the small intestine. In older children and adults, projectile vomiting can be associated with increased intracranial pressure, which may be caused by head injuries, brain tumors, or meningitis. Other potential causes include certain types of food poisoning, gastrointestinal obstructions, or severe infections.

Diagnosis of the underlying cause is crucial. Medical professionals will consider the patient's age, medical history, and other accompanying symptoms. Treatment focuses on addressing the root cause of the vomiting, rehydration to prevent dehydration, and sometimes medications to manage nausea or other related symptoms. If projectile vomiting occurs, especially in infants or if accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever or severe headache, seeking medical attention is recommended.