In most cases, other than food poisoning, vomiting may be unnecessary. In all cases, it is very unpleasant. No one likes the feeling of discomfort within the stomach followed by an involuntary gag reflex. Here are tips on how to stop vomiting and begin feeling better.
Step 1: Drink electrolytes like Gatorade, drink ice water, or suck on ice chips or cubes. Every 15 minutes, sip on one to two ounces of clear liquid. Let the liquid come to room temperature because if it is too cold, it may upset a sensitive stomach. If you drink too much liquid at one time, your stomach will become irritated.
Step 2: Once you start to feel better, increase the frequency of sipping. Steer clear of liquids that contain carbonation, like soda, because the bubbles are likely to upset the stomach.
Step 3: Use syrup to help calm the stomach. Coke syrup, like the kind used in a soda dispenser, or an over the counter syrup such as Emetrol, is effective. Adults should take one to two tablespoons, while children should consume one to two teaspoons.
Step 4: Once you begin eating again, start with crackers, Jell-O, or other simple carbohydrates. Later, incorporate proteins such as chicken noodle soup. Fats should only be consumed when you are fully recovered. These are difficult to digest and can upset the stomach.
Step 5: A small quantity of dry crackers can also decrease nausea. This technique is especially effective for people who mistake hunger for nausea.
Step 6: Chew mint gum or suck on a mint to get the intestines working properly. The mint flavor also helps to calm the stomach.
Step 7: When you are gagging or nauseous, take fast, quick breaths and put a cool, damp cloth on the back of the neck or on the forehead.