Your stomach acid isn't typically yellow. What you might be experiencing is the presence of bile in your vomit, which can appear yellow or greenish. This happens when bile, a fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, backs up into your stomach and is then expelled.
What Causes Yellow Vomit?
There are several reasons why you might throw up bile. Here are some common ones:
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach during pregnancy can sometimes lead to bile reflux.
- Bile Reflux: This occurs when bile flows backward from the small intestine into the stomach and even up into the esophagus.
- Intestinal Blockage: A blockage in the small intestine can prevent food and digestive fluids, including bile, from moving through the digestive system, leading to vomiting.
- Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can irritate the stomach and lead to vomiting, which might include bile.
These are a few common causes, and some of them (like intestinal blockages) may require immediate medical attention. It’s important to note that "bilious vomiting" is another term used to describe vomiting that includes bile.
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Pregnancy | Hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach can cause bile reflux. |
| Bile Reflux | Bile flows backward from the small intestine into the stomach. |
| Intestinal Blockage | A blockage prevents normal digestive flow, leading to vomiting bile. |
| Alcohol Consumption | Excessive alcohol can irritate the stomach, leading to vomiting that may include bile. |
When to Seek Medical Attention
While occasional yellow vomit may not be cause for alarm, it's important to seek medical advice if you experience it frequently or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fever
- Inability to keep down food or fluids
- Signs of dehydration, like dry mouth, dizziness, or decreased urination.
It's best to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
