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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Vomiting

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Vomiting is when the stomach contents are ejected through the mouth.

What is going on in the body?

Most people have vomited at least once in their lives. Though unpleasant, vomiting is often the body's way of trying to get rid of harmful toxins. There are many different causes of vomiting.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Any illness can cause vomiting, especially in infants. For instance, ear infections are a common cause of vomiting in infants. The flu can also cause vomiting. Other causes include:

stomach or intestinal infections, such as food poisoning or gastroenteritis

peptic ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease

inflammation in or around the gut, such as appendicitis, pancreatitis, hepatitis, or gastritis

blockage in the bowels, such as pyloric stenosis or duodenal atresia in infants, or small or large bowel obstruction at any age

food allergies or lactose intolerance

toxins or medications, such as alcohol, many antibiotics, or chemotherapy in cancer patients

kidney failure, such as acute renal failure

heart attack

pregnancy, which often causes morning sickness

tumors or cancer, which may be in the stomach, intestines, or in other parts of the body

increased pressure inside the skull, also called increased intracranial pressure

certain types of uncontrolled diabetes

extreme anxiety or a sense of disgust, such as from a foul odor

extreme overexertion or exercise

seasickness or motion sickness

migraine headaches

bulimia nervosa, an eating disorder with self-induced vomiting

Other causes are also possible. Sometimes, no cause can be found.

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