Sometimes you may feel like inducing vomiting due to food poisoning or some reaction to spoiled foods to get some relief. However, self-induced vomiting is not always safe and should only be done in specific situations, there may occur some situations where you need to know how to throw up.
This article coverssafe methods, risks, and when you should (or shouldn't) induce vomiting.
When Should You Make Yourself Throw Up?
Vomiting should never be the first solution unless advised by a medical professional. However, in rare cases, it may help in situations like:
Swallowed Non-Corrosive Substances: If someone has ingested mild toxins (like certain plants or spoiled food) and a doctor suggests vomiting, it can help clear the stomach. But for serious poisonings, always call Poison Control (800-222-1222 in the USA) before acting.
Food Poisoning: If you’ve accidentally consumed spoiled or contaminated food, vomiting may help expel toxins. However, medical help is the best approach.
Warning: If you suspect poisoning from acidic, sharp, or chemical substances (bleach, glass, battery acid, etc.), NEVER induce vomiting as it can cause more harm.
How To Throw Up Safely: 10 Best Methods
The below-mentioned methods are not recommended to get relief from chemical poisoning. However, if you experience unbearable nausea after a meal, and if vomiting is necessary, use these safe methods with caution:
1. Trigger the Gag Reflex (Finger Method)
Using your fingers to tickle the gag reflex is one of the simple self-induced vomiting methods. On triggering this reflex, the contraction induces the stomach to force out all the content through the mouth. Here's how you should do it safely:
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Gently insert two fingers toward the back of your throat.
- Press down until you feel the gag reflex trigger vomiting.
- Remove your fingers immediately once vomiting begins.
Avoid using sharp objects (like a spoon) as they can injure your throat.
2. Gargle with Salt Water
Use salt water to gargle intensely for 10 minutes which helps induce gagging (choking). This results in forceful stomach contraction, causing flow back off stomach content towards the mouth.
3. Drink Warm Salt Water
Mix 1-2 teaspoons of salt in lukewarm water and drink it quickly. It induces vomiting in about 20-30 minutes as sodium in salt changes the body's natural electrolyte balance and forces it to vomit.
Caution: Frequent use of salt water can lead to dehydration and high sodium levels—use sparingly.
4. Use A Toothbrush
A toothbrush can be helpful in case you’re feeling uncomfortable tickling your gag reflex with your fingers. Just scrape off the back side of the tongue with a toothbrush, forcing quick vomit.
5. Imagine An Unpleasant Smell Or Sight
Imagine any sight you once felt uninviting or a bad smell, for instance, of a medication you don't like can induce vomit. The unwelcoming views and smells can stimulate your body to puke.
6. Consume Baking Soda Solution
Have a solution of 1 teaspoon of baking soda mixed in water. The sodium bicarbonate helps induce throw-up by yourself. Don’t consume too much quantity to avoid a dehydration issue.
Caution: Excessive consumption can lead to electrolyte imbalance. Use only when necessary.
7. Try Bloodroot Herb (Use with Caution)
Drink a mixture of bloodroot powder and a glass of water. Research reports that moderate doses of bloodroot can help induce vomiting. Avoid high doses to prevent mucus membrane irritation.
Caution: Bloodroot is toxic in large doses and can cause severe irritation. Always consult a doctor before use.
8. Mustard Water Method
Gulp the solution of 1 or 2 teaspoons of mustard with water all at once. Its natural emetic (vomit-inducing) effects make you feel nauseous which immediately induces vomiting. However, don’t use it often to avoid dehydration.
9. Gargle with Raw Egg Whites
Just take the egg whites and gargle using them. The unpleasant taste and smell of the white part will force your stomach to throw out all the contents instantly through vomit.
10. Think About Vomiting
If you’ve vomited before due to nausea, recalling that memory may psychologically trigger vomiting again.
When NOT to Induce Vomiting
Avoid self-induced vomiting in the following situations, as it can cause serious harm:
Ingested Sharp or Corrosive Substances (e.g., glass, bleach, batteries): Can cause internal injuries.
Pregnancy: Can cause complications such as body strain or dehydration, especially in the initial trimester of pregnancy.
Heart conditions: Self-vomiting can put additional pressure on the heart and further worsen conditions like heart disease.
Unknown Cause of Nausea: In case you don't know the reason behind feeling nauseated, seek medical attention instead of taking risks to avoid further injury.
In case of poisoning, call Poison Control (800-222-1222 in the USA) or seek emergency care instead of vomiting.
What to Do After Vomiting?
Consider these tips to recover safely after you make yourself throw up:
Rinse Your Mouth: Some types of acid can remain in your mouth after puking out which can harm the gums and teeth. So, wash your mouth using water immediately.
Drink Water: Drink small sips of water, ORS, or electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration.
Take Rest Properly: Throwing up can be stressful for your body. So, lie down with your head elevated a little to prevent accidental inhalation of vomit.
Sip Some Juices or herbal teas: Drink cranberry juice to prevent bittersweet taste or bad mouth breath, have ginger ale to soothe your stomach, or take ORS to rehydrate your body.
Take a Warm Bath: Have a hot shower to relax your body as vomiting can be stressful.
Eat Light Food: Consume light food like applesauce, mashed potatoes, or bananas as they are easy to digest. They also help comfort your stomach and prevent nausea.
Note: If vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, or you notice blood in vomit, seek medical help immediately.
Potential Risks of Frequent Self-induced Vomiting
Inducing vomiting too often can cause severe health risks, including:
Aspiration Pneumonia: Vomit can flow back and accidentally enter the lungs, leading to inflammation and bacterial growth which causes respiratory infection.
Esophageal damage: Forceful vomiting practice can damage the tissue of the esophagus, causing irritation or tears.
Choking Hazard: Choking can happen in case the airway gets blocked, particularly if you are not in a comfortable position.
Dehydration & Electrolyte Imbalance: Frequent vomiting can lead to weakness, dizziness, or even heart problems.
Heart Strain: Frequent vomiting can put stress on the heart, especially in existing heart patients.
- Mental Health Risks: Eating disorders like bulimia involve frequent vomiting, leading to long-term health complications.
If you struggle with frequent vomiting due to an eating disorder, seek professional help immediately.
Precautions To Take While Inducing Vomiting
Consider these precautions while inducing vomiting to ensure a safe experience.
Follow Proper Techniques: Make sure to follow the methods mentioned above in the right manner. Performing the incorrect technique can harm your body.
Wash the Hands Thoroughly: This prevents bacteria and microorganisms present in the hands from spreading to the throat and causing infections such as tonsillitis. So, properly wash your hands using soap and warm water.
Kneel in Front of Your Toilet Seat: This position can prevent strain on the stomach and provide comfort thus, avoiding discomfort while vomiting.
Avoid Regular Induction: Too much-inducing vomit can lead to some health problems such as gums, teeth, and throat issues. So, try to avoid vomiting too often.
Take Professional Help: If you face a problem vomiting yourself, do not force it. Consider seeking guidance from the best healthcare experts.
Final Thoughts
How to throw up can be the concern of some people who suddenly develop food poisoning or reaction to some foods. While inducing vomiting may provide relief in rare cases, it is not a safe solution for most situations. Instead of self-induced vomiting, consider seeking medical help for proper treatment. You can use a finger or toothbrush, do intense gargling, imagine unpleasant sights or smells, consume baking soda, etc., to induce vomiting. Follow the proper techniques and consider potential risks before deciding to make yourself throw up.
If you or someone else has ingested harmful substances, call Poison Control (800-222-1222 in the USA) or visit a doctor immediately.
Your health matters—stay informed, stay safe!
RELATED: The Best Treatments For Nausea and Vomiting in Adults
अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले प्रश्नों
Is it right to make yourself vomit?
No, it’s not a healthy practice unless the situation demands it or needs medical monitoring. This can cause damage to your physical and mental health.
What position is comfortable to vomit out?
The best relaxing position to puke out is kneeling down on your legs. Make sure to take a deep breath before vomiting.
Why do you feel better after making yourself throw up?
After you throw up, there is an increase in chemical release and saliva production, giving a sense of relief and making you feel better.
What medication can we take to throw up?
Medicines with emetic properties are best as they trigger stomach contraction, inducing vomiting. But, take medical advice first.
Why does it feel uneasy to eat after vomiting?
The reason is irritation which is caused by stomach acid and is accompanied by dehydration. So, if you feel so, just relax for 30 minutes and sip some warm water or a slice of fruit to soothe irritation.
Does inducing vomiting yourself make you lose body weight?
No, it does not. Remember to not practice it, if you want to reduce weight as it is a very unhealthy way.
What to do to prevent a need to vomit in the future?
To avoid such a situation, follow a healthy diet, have a light meal when feeling nauseous, and do not overeat. If the symptoms become worse, consult a medical professional.
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