Symptom Definition

This is the forced contraction of the stomach, pushing its contents down the oesophagus and out of the mouth. Vomiting empties the stomach and helps the person with nausea to feel better, at least temporarily. Vomiting is very uncomfortable and can be violent.

Vomiting should not be confused with regurgitation, which is the expulsion of stomach contents without forced abdominal contractions or nausea. For example, a person with achalasia or Zenker's diverticulum may regurgitate undigested food without nausea.

In addition to vomiting and dizziness, other symptoms may include:

• Sweating, chills, excessive salivation
• General feeling of weakness and tiredness
• Loss of appetite

Caution, there is always a risk of dehydration with vomiting, especially in the most vulnerable people (children, elderly).