Vomiting often accompanies diarrhea as part of the viral illness, gastroenteritis.  It is usually not considered serious if your child has vomited only a few times, is able to keep small amounts of fluids down, is well hydrated and is comfortable.

 

What should we do?

 

The first thing to do is to give your child nothing by mouth for 20 - 30 minutes after they have vomited.  This will give their stomach time to settle.  Then try to get your child to take small, frequent amounts of clear fluids every 15 - 20 minutes.  The preferred clear liquids for young children, less than two years old are Pedialyte and similar electrolyte solutions.  You can find these in the area of the store where you would get the infant formula.  Other choices for clear fluids are Gatorade, soft drinks, jello and popsicles.  (We recommend that you avoid liquids that are red in color because they can be confused with blood.)

 

What is dehydration?

 

Dehydration is the condition that occurs when your child is not able to maintain his/her fluid balance.  It is the most common emergency caused by gastroenteritis.  Dehydration is most likely to occur when children having both vomiting and diarrhea, (especially if having several bouts per day) and unable to keep fluids down.

 

The signs of dehydration are:

 

1)Decreased urination

     a.  infants should urinate every 6 - 8 hours

     b. toddlers and children should urinate at least every 8 - 12 hours

 

2) Dry mouth (lack of saliva)

3) Decreased tears

4) Lethargy (less responsive)

 

Reasons to call the Doctor on call or proceed to the emergency room**

 

1) Dehydration

2) Vomiting green colored fluids

3) Severe abdominal pain**

4) Blood in stool or vomit

5) Lethargy** (decreased responsiveness, hard to arouse)