HomeAnswersMedical GastroenterologyvomitingMy 6-year-old daughter has been experiencing intermittent episodes of vomiting with a stomach ache. Why?

What can cause intermittent vomiting with stomach ache in a 6-year-old girl?

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Published At September 9, 2023
Reviewed AtDecember 7, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My 6-year-old daughter has been experiencing intermittent episodes of vomiting. Two months ago, she vomited but appeared fine afterward. One month after that for four to five days, she vomited during the night, always after falling asleep. Initially, she had stomach aches and a decreased appetite for a few days, but after a few days, she was completely fine. She also had no issues in the ten days after that. At first, I assumed that the first episode was an isolated incident, and the vomiting one month after might have been due to a stomach bug, even though she did not experience diarrhea or fever. However, two days ago, she vomited again. This time, it resembled the first occurrence two months ago as she was not asleep prior to vomiting and seemed completely fine before and after. I am growing increasingly concerned that there may be an underlying and more serious cause for these episodes. I have not identified any specific correlation between her diet and these events. Please diagnose the cause of my daughter’s symptoms.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern. I would like to inform you that some potential causes of recurrent vomiting in children include the followings:

  1. Gastroenteritis: Gastroenteritis is a common viral or bacterial infection that affects the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. However, if your daughter did not experience diarrhea or fever, it may not be the primary cause in her case.

  2. Food intolerance or allergy: Some children may have difficulty digesting certain foods or have allergic reactions to specific ingredients, resulting in vomiting. Common culprits include dairy products, gluten, or certain food additives. Keeping a food diary might help identify any patterns or triggers.

  3. Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): In these conditions, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and sometimes vomiting. Reflux is more common in infants but can persist into childhood.

  4. Migraines: Surprisingly, migraines can occur in young children and may cause episodes of vomiting, often accompanied by headaches or stomach aches. Migraines can be triggered by various factors such as stress, certain foods, or changes in sleep patterns.

  5. Motion sickness: Some children are prone to motion sickness, which can result in nausea and vomiting during or after car rides, boat trips, or other forms of motion.

  6. Anxiety or stress: Emotional distress, anxiety, or stress can sometimes manifest in physical symptoms such as stomach aches and vomiting.

I hope this has helped you. Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Veerabhadrudu Kuncham
Dr. Veerabhadrudu Kuncham

Pediatrics

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