Morning Nausea in Children: Causes and Solutions for Your 6-Year-Old

Feeling nauseous upon waking up in the morning?

Hello, I would like to ask you: My son is 6 years old and recently had gastroenteritis, experiencing vomiting and diarrhea.
He has recovered, but he still feels nauseous in the mornings upon waking, which has been happening for over a month.
We have tried giving him some saltine crackers in the morning and having him eat breakfast earlier instead of at school, but this situation has not improved.
Is this a stomach issue? Does he need medication? Could it be related to him being on an empty stomach? He has a habit of drinking milk before bed since he was little; could this be causing his stomach problems? Additionally, he particularly feels nauseous when he reaches the school gate—could this be a sign of not wanting to go to school?

Miss Peng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/21

Dr. Zhang Yingwen reply Pediatrics

The common causes of nausea and vomiting in children include the following: 1.
Gastroenteritis, often caused by consuming spoiled or contaminated food, leading to viral or bacterial infections that irritate the stomach.
2.
Allergic reactions of the gastric mucosa, such as gastritis or gastric ulcers.
3.
High concentrations of toxins in the blood, such as alcohol or drugs.
4.
Organ diseases, such as acute appendicitis or gallbladder disease.
5.
Psychogenic vomiting, triggered by seeing something repulsive or smelling foul odors.
6.
Stimulation of the vomiting center in the brain, such as motion sickness or brain tumors.
It is recommended to visit a pediatric gastroenterology clinic for further examination and diagnosis.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2016/06/21

More Info

Morning nausea in children, especially following a bout of gastroenteritis, can be concerning for parents. In your case, your 6-year-old son has experienced nausea for over a month after recovering from vomiting and diarrhea. Let's explore the potential causes and solutions for this issue.

Possible Causes of Morning Nausea
1. Post-Infectious Gastroenteritis: After a gastrointestinal infection, some children may experience lingering symptoms, including nausea. This can occur due to residual inflammation in the stomach lining or changes in gut motility.
2. Empty Stomach: If your son is waking up and not eating until later in the morning, he may be experiencing nausea due to an empty stomach. The stomach produces acid, and without food, this acid can irritate the stomach lining, leading to feelings of nausea.

3. Anxiety or Stress: Children can experience anxiety about school, which may manifest as physical symptoms, including nausea. If he feels particularly nauseous upon arriving at school, it could indicate anxiety about attending school or separation from home.

4. Dietary Habits: Drinking milk before bed is generally fine for most children, but if he has a sensitivity to lactose or if the milk is too heavy for him, it could contribute to morning nausea. Additionally, if he is consuming a diet high in processed foods or sugars, this could also affect his gastrointestinal health.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Gradual Dietary Changes: Since you’ve already tried giving him soda crackers in the morning, consider experimenting with other light foods that are easy on the stomach, such as bananas, toast, or oatmeal. These can help settle his stomach and provide some energy before school.

2. Regular Meal Schedule: Encourage a consistent eating schedule. If he is used to having milk before bed, ensure that he has a light breakfast shortly after waking up. This may help reduce nausea by preventing an empty stomach.

3. Hydration: Ensure he stays well-hydrated, especially after a gastrointestinal illness. Dehydration can exacerbate feelings of nausea. Offer water or electrolyte solutions to keep him hydrated.

4. Monitor for Anxiety: Pay attention to any signs of anxiety related to school. If he seems particularly anxious, consider discussing his feelings with him. Sometimes, talking about what makes him anxious can help alleviate those feelings. You might also want to consult with a school counselor or child psychologist if the anxiety persists.

5. Consult a Pediatrician: Since this nausea has lasted for over a month, it would be wise to consult your pediatrician. They may recommend further evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions or suggest medications if necessary. They can also provide guidance on whether any dietary changes or supplements might be beneficial.

6. Behavioral Strategies: If the nausea is linked to anxiety about school, implementing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices may help him manage his feelings better.

Conclusion
While morning nausea can be distressing, it is often manageable with the right approach. By addressing dietary habits, ensuring regular meals, and monitoring for anxiety, you can help your son find relief. However, since this issue has persisted, a visit to the pediatrician is advisable to ensure there are no underlying health concerns. Your proactive approach in seeking solutions is commendable, and with time and appropriate strategies, your son can hopefully overcome this challenge.

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