What criteria should I use to decide when to refer a patient with persistent nausea and vomiting to secondary care?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 14 August 2025Updated: 14 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Refer to secondary care for patients with persistent nausea and vomiting if there are red flag features suggesting serious underlying conditions, such as suspicion of cancer, gastrointestinal obstruction, or other acute surgical conditions ,.

Specifically, in adults aged 55 and over, consider urgent referral if nausea and vomiting are associated with weight loss, raised platelet count, or other alarm features ,.

In children and young people, refer to specialist care if there are red flag symptoms such as bile-stained vomit, haematemesis, persistent or projectile vomiting, or signs of distress, faltering growth, or complications ,.

Additionally, consider referral if nausea and vomiting are treatment-resistant or if there is suspicion of serious conditions like intracranial pressure, bowel obstruction, or malignancy based on clinical assessment ,.

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