Persistent/recurrent vomiting

Facts

Nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting (being sick) are very common and most teenagers with nausea and vomiting will not have a brain tumour.
Most teenagers with nausea and vomiting due to a brain tumour will have other signs or symptoms – these should be looked for carefully.
Teenagers with persistent vomiting require assessment to determine the cause.

Nausea and vomiting due to a brain tumour

will usually be persistent, occurring on most days
will usually be accompanied by a headache
may wake the teenager up, or occur particularly when they wake up
will not be accompanied by diarrhoea or a high temperature

There are a number of conditions that can be associated with nausea and vomiting, and dehydration is also a risk; further general information on vomiting in teenagers can be found at NHS Choices. In young women who are pregnant, or may be pregnant, 'morning sickness' can be another cause of nausea and vomiting.

If you're a teenager and you're concerned about your symptoms, it's best to get them checked out by your GP.

If you're a parent or carer of a teenager and you're concerned about their symptoms, explain that you think they should go to the GP and offer to make them an appointment. Bear in mind that, depending on their age and circumstances, they may choose to go to the GP on their own, although many appreciate having a parent or carer with them whatever their age.