Shaking after vomiting is a common physiological response, often indicating the body’s reaction to the physical stress of the episode. While usually harmless, understanding its causes can be helpful.
Why the Body Shakes
Shaking after vomiting stems from several physiological factors. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, due to fluid loss, can disrupt normal body functions and lead to tremors. The intense physical distress of vomiting can also trigger an adrenaline surge, activating the body’s fight-or-flight response. The vagus nerve, involved in the vomiting reflex, can also influence muscle activity.
Vomiting is a physically demanding process involving significant muscle exertion. This strain contributes to generalized weakness and shaking. Vomiting can also affect blood glucose levels, causing them to drop and leading to shakiness. The entire episode can leave the body exhausted, contributing to tremors during recovery.
Situations Leading to Vomiting and Shaking
Common situations can lead to vomiting and subsequent shaking. Gastroenteritis, or stomach flu, is a frequent cause, characterized by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and chills. Food poisoning, from contaminated food, can also cause sudden vomiting and shaking.
Motion sickness, experienced during travel, can trigger vomiting and tremors. Migraines, particularly severe ones, sometimes include vomiting. Severe anxiety or panic attacks can also cause nausea, vomiting, and trembling. Excessive alcohol consumption is another common trigger, leading to vomiting and associated shakes.
When Medical Help is Needed
While shaking after vomiting is often temporary and benign, certain signs indicate a need for medical attention. Seek professional help if shaking is severe or persistent, or accompanied by a high fever. Severe abdominal pain, or signs of severe dehydration like decreased urination, extreme thirst, confusion, or dizziness, require immediate medical attention.
Vomiting blood or material resembling dark coffee grounds is a serious sign of internal bleeding and requires emergency medical care. An inability to keep liquids down for an extended period (e.g., 12-24 hours for adults) also requires medical intervention to prevent severe dehydration. Changes in mental status, including extreme lethargy or unresponsiveness, or shaking combined with a severe headache or stiff neck, also indicate a need for medical attention.
Recovering After Vomiting and Shaking
After a vomiting episode, focus on rehydration and gentle nourishment. Begin by taking small sips of water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions, gradually increasing the amount as tolerated. Avoid sugary drinks or caffeine.
Rest is important, allowing the body to recover from the physical exertion and stress of vomiting. Once vomiting has stopped and liquids are tolerated, gradually reintroduce bland, easy-to-digest foods like toast, rice, applesauce, or crackers. Avoid irritants such as strong smells or rich foods that might trigger further nausea.