Most children with an illness that causes vomiting or diarrhea will feel better after a few days.
For the most part, children who are vomiting and/or have diarrhea need basic treatments like fluids and rest.
For severe vomiting, your child’s healthcare provider may also prescribe an anti-vomiting medication.
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Vomiting and diarrhea can cause them to lose more liquid than they take in.
Similarly, Gatorade’s high sugar content makes it controversial when used for diarrhea or vomiting.
Oral rehydration solutions are available in most supermarkets and drug stores without a prescription and come in good-tasting flavors.
Your child might prefer some flavors over others.
you could gradually increase the amount you give at each time as your child begins to keep it down.
Sipping on cola may help to ease nausea.
It contains phosphoric acid, which can help quell nausea.
Ginger tea may also help.
The total amount of fluids you should aim to give depends on how dehydrated your child is.
Spit-up flows out easily, usually with a burp, and dribbles out the mouth.
Vomiting occurs with force and shoots out.
Vomit can also sometimes have an unpleasant odor.
Severe cases of nausea and vomiting are sometimes treated with a prescription medication called Zofran (ondansetron).
Diarrhea takes place if there is a sudden increase in the number or looseness of stools.
In general, three or more watery stools are considered diarrhea.
Diarrhea in a baby is concerning because of the risk of dehydration.
Signs of dehydration include reduced urine output, dark urine, very dry mouth, and no tears.
You should also call if diarrhea lasts more than two weeks or if loose stools are a frequent problem.
Summary
Most cases of diarrhea and vomiting in children will resolve after a couple of days.
While your child is recovering, it’s important to confirm they stay hydrated.
Oral rehydration solution like Pedialyte is the best fluid to give a child with a stomach illness.
Medication is not usually advised for a child with vomiting and diarrhea.
Don’t use over-the-counter medications.
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