Define regurgitation and how it differs from vomiting.

• A. Regurgitation is passive reflux of undigested or partially digested material into the mouth without prior nausea or retching; vomiting is forceful expulsion with nausea
• B. Regurgitation always includes blood; vomiting never
• C. Regurgitation occurs only in infants; vomiting only in adults
• D. Regurgitation requires a procedure; vomiting is spontaneous

Answer: (A)

Regurgitation is the passive backflow of swallowed material into the mouth without the person feeling nauseated or going through retching. The material is usually undigested or only partially digested, reflecting movement from the esophagus or upper GI tract rather than an active stomach emptying. Vomiting, on the other hand, is a forceful expulsion of gastric contents driven by a reflex that involves strong abdominal and diaphragmatic contractions, and it is typically preceded by nausea and retching.

This distinction matters because regurgitation suggests esophageal or oropharyngeal issues (like reflux, motility problems, or a diverticulum), whereas vomiting points to gastric distress or systemic triggers. The other statements don’t fit: regurgitation is not defined by the presence of blood, it can occur at any age, and it does not require a procedure.