Vomiting and diarrhea are mainly due to problems of stomach and intestines. Vomiting and diarrhea in children are often caused by a virus infection. Vomiting usually lasts a few hours. And diarrhea may last a couple of days in most situations. Other cause of vomiting includes head injury, abdominal injury, infections in other part of body, side-effects of medicines. Proper diagnosis leads to proper treatment. Diarrhea and vomiting is one of the major reasons for childhood hospitalization.In viral infections of intestines antibiotics are not required. We should keep a watch on urine output. Lower the urine volume more is the dehydration. Unnecessary, stopping breast milk in infants, milk in children should be avoided. ORS should be given add libb. Fruit juices should be avoided. IV fluids are needed for severe dehydration. If your child’s diagnosis is not clear, tests may be needed.Give your child a normal diet unless told otherwise. Avoid high fat foods. Do not force your child to eat. It is common for a child to have little appetite when vomiting. If vomiting right after nursing, nurse for shorter periods of time more often. If vomiting is better after 3 to 4 hours, return to normal feeding schedule. If your child has started solid foods, do not introduce new solids at this time. Replace any fluid losses from diarrhea and vomiting with ORS or clear fluids. Prevent the spread of infection by washing hands. Prevent diaper rash by frequent diaper changes, cleaning the diaper area with warm water on a soft cloth.Contact Pediatric Gastroenterologist /pediatrician immediately if:Confusion or decreased alertness, Sunken eyes, Pale skin, Dry mouth, No tears when crying, Rapid breathing or pulse, Weakness or limpness, green or yellow vomit, abdominal pain, Vomiting red blood, Severe headache, bloody Diarrhea, fever uncontrolled by ,medicines.
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