Yes, overeating can sometimes cause vomiting hours later. When you eat an excessive amount of food, your stomach may become overly full and stretched, leading to discomfort and feelings of nausea. In some cases, the stomach may struggle to digest and process such a large quantity of food, which can result in delayed gastric emptying.
Delayed gastric emptying, also known as gastroparesis, is a condition where the muscles in the stomach are unable to contract and empty the stomach contents properly. This can lead to food remaining in the stomach for an extended period, causing feelings of fullness, bloating, and nausea, which may eventually lead to vomiting.
Additionally, overeating can cause the lower esophageal sphincter (the muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach) to relax, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus, causing acid reflux. This reflux can also trigger nausea and vomiting.
It's worth noting that individual tolerance to overeating can vary, and not everyone will experience vomiting as a result. Some people may only experience discomfort, bloating, or heartburn. However, if overeating and vomiting become a frequent occurrence, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions or potential complications.