Vomiting and diarrhea may be caused by many different ailments. Watch your child closely.

Take your child to the doctor if:

• You notice signs of dehydration, such as:
  • dry lips and mouth
  • few wet diapers
  • no tears
  • sunken "soft" spot on head
  • sunken eyes
  • acting very weak, tired, fussy, or confused
  • difficult to wake up
  • will not or cannot drink fluids
• There is blood in stool or vomit.
• Vomiting lasts more than 12 hours.
• Vomit is bright green or yellow to dark green.
• Stomach pain lasts more than 2 hours.
• If an infant, the child may draw his legs up tight and cry hard when having stomach pain.

Doctors often do not treat vomiting and diarrhea with medicine. Medicines used for adults will make children more sick.

What can you do?

• Try to keep your child from becoming dehydrated by giving him clear fluids.
  • Give small amounts at a time at first (about 1 ounce every 5 - 10 minutes).
  • Give more as your child is able to take it without more vomiting.
• If your child is still taking formula, continue to give your regular formula.
• If your child is breast-fed, you can still try breast-feeding. Be sure that you do not eat spicy foods or other foods that might upset your child's stomach.
• If your child is losing fluids, add clear liquids such as Ricelite or Pedialite along with normal feeding.
• If your child is eating solid foods, feed your child as he will allow. Foods such as rice, wheat, potatoes, cereals, chicken, yogurt, fruits, and vegetables are best. Avoid fatty foods.

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Information and links found on the UT Medical Group, Inc. web site are neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency call your healthcare provider immediately.