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Vomiting in Japan: What to do (and when to call 119)

Last updated: 2026-03-03

TL;DR (30-second decision)

  • Call 119 now if you vomit blood, have vomit that looks like coffee grounds, you are confused/fainting, have severe chest/abdominal pain, or you cannot keep fluids down and look severely dehydrated.
  • If you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency: Call #7119 (if available) for advice on whether you need an ambulance and where to go.
  • For most mild cases: small sips of fluids often, rest, and avoid heavy food.
  • If you also have fever/cold-like symptoms, many clinics ask you to call ahead; bring a mask.

Call 119 immediately (red flags)

Call 119 right away if you have any of these:

  • Blood in vomit, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds (nhs.uk)
  • Severe, worsening abdominal pain, a hard/swollen belly, or severe tenderness
  • Severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or you may have inhaled vomit
  • Confusion, fainting, severe weakness, or you feel you might pass out
  • Signs of severe dehydration: very little urine, dizziness when standing, dry mouth, no tears, unable to keep even small sips down
  • Vomiting after a significant head injury, or vomiting with a severe headache/stiff neck

What you can do right now (home care)

For many short-lived cases (for example, stomach flu or food-related illness), focus on hydration:

  1. Start with tiny sips
  • Take small sips of water or oral rehydration solution (ORS) every few minutes.
  • If you vomit again, wait 10–15 minutes and try again with even smaller sips.
  1. Food: go slow
  • When vomiting settles, start with bland foods (toast, rice porridge, crackers).
  • Avoid alcohol, greasy food, and large meals until you feel better.
  1. Rest
  • Avoid strenuous activity until you can drink normally.

OTC medicines in Japan: what to be careful about

  • Avoid using strong painkillers to “push through” vomiting with significant pain—get medical evaluation if symptoms are severe or worsening.
  • If you need fever/pain relief, acetaminophen (paracetamol) is often gentler on the stomach than NSAIDs.
  • If you suspect dehydration, fluids matter more than medicine.

(If you have chronic disease, are pregnant, or take blood thinners, ask a pharmacist/doctor before taking medicines.)

Note for parents: Some common adult OTC medicines (including many NSAIDs) are not appropriate for kids. For child fever guidance (including when to call #8000 or 119), see: Fever (Children) in Japan

When you should see a doctor soon (same day / within 24 hours)

Seek medical care if:

  • Vomiting lasts more than 24 hours (or keeps coming back)
  • You cannot keep fluids down for several hours
  • You have fever, severe abdominal pain, or worsening symptoms
  • You have signs of moderate dehydration (very little urine, dizziness, dry mouth)
  • You are older, immunocompromised, or have serious chronic disease

Japan-specific: how to visit a clinic/hospital

  • If you have fever/cold-like symptoms, many clinics ask you to call ahead and follow instructions (some may ask you to wait outside).
  • Bring a mask—many medical facilities request it.
  • If you’re unsure whether you need an ambulance: #7119 (if available) can advise you.

What to say (simple English)

Calling #7119 (if available)

“I’m vomiting. It started [time] ago.
I have vomited [number] times.
I can/cannot keep fluids down.
I also have [fever / abdominal pain / diarrhea].
Do I need an ambulance? Where should I go?”

Calling a clinic

“Hello. I have been vomiting since [time].
I can/cannot keep fluids down.
I also have [fever / diarrhea / abdominal pain].
Can I visit today? Do I need an appointment?”

FAQ

Is vomiting an emergency?

Sometimes. If there is blood in vomit, severe chest/abdominal pain, confusion/fainting, or you cannot keep fluids down and look severely dehydrated, treat it as urgent and call 119.

What should I drink if I’m vomiting?

Start with small sips frequently (water or oral rehydration solution). If you vomit again, pause briefly and restart with smaller sips.

Should I go to a clinic right away?

If vomiting is persistent, you cannot keep fluids down, or you have fever/severe pain/worsening symptoms, seek care. If you’re unsure, #7119 (if available) can advise you.

Do I need to call ahead in Japan?

Often yes—especially if you also have fever/cold-like symptoms. Many clinics ask you to call ahead and follow instructions.

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