Vomiting
The majority of cases of vomiting are caused by a virus and are worst for twelve to twenty-four hours. Vomiting typically will stop on its own without specific medical treatment. You should never use over-the-counter or prescription remedies.
What to do to help … Modify Your Child’s Diet
After vomiting, children temporarily feel much better and their thirst drive prompts them to drink … even large amounts. However, their stomach is NOT able to handle large volumes of anything. Here are the steps that should be followed:
• After your child vomits, he should take nothing by mouth for 20 minutes.
• After 20 minutes, you may offer TWO OUNCES of CLEAR FLUIDS. Electrolyte solutions are very helpful in preventing dehydration. These solutions include Pedialyte, but most children prefer Gatorade or Powerade. Other choices would chicken broth, rice water, Sprite or 7-Up, popsicles such as Blue Bell Bullets, or Jello. Your child should have two ounces of clear fluids every twenty minutes until they have not vomited for 6 hours. No more!
• You should avoid solids until there has been no vomiting for at least 6 hours. When ready to re-introduce solids, the child should be offered small amounts of bland foods such as rice, bread, bananas, potatoes, or chicken.
When to call us
Watch for Dehydration! Dehydration is a term used when the body loses so much water that it can no longer function efficiently. It can also contribute to nausea. Warning signs you should watch for at home are:
• No urine for more than 6 hours
• Dryness on the INSIDE of the mouth … not the lips
• Crying with no tears
If your child exhibits these signs, cannot retain any clear liquids, or if the symptoms become more severe, notify our office immediately.
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