Vomiting in Children

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Causes

Signs/Symptoms

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

• The child should rest in bed until he or she feels better or there has been no vomiting for 24 hours.
• Let the child's stomach rest for 1 hour after vomiting, then give sips of liquids every 10 to 15 minutes. Gradually increase the amount of liquid you offer.
• Encourage but do not force your child to drink. If vomiting starts again, give the liquids a teaspoonful at a time.
• Give only clear liquids for the first 24 hours. The following liquids are usually well tolerated:
  • Crushed ice.
  • Gelatin water: Add 1 package of instant gelatin to a quart of water. Remember that red gelatin may stain stools and be mistaken for blood.
  • Flat carbonated liquids such as ginger ale or cola. Let the beverage stand at room temperature with the cap off or put a teaspoon of sugar or warm water into the drink to make it flat. Gas in your child's stomach can cause more vomiting.
  • Frozen juices
  • Clear beef broth, chicken broth, or bouillon cubes. If the cubes are spicy, dilute with twice as much water as you would usually use.
  • Sports beverages
• If the child wants food, start with saltine crackers. Do not give milk or solid foods for at least 24 hours.
• After 24 hours, try diluted skim milk, refined rice or cereal, bananas, or applesauce, then work toward a normal diet.
• Do not give your child fresh fruit with peels, raw vegetables, or coarse cereals until recovery is complete.
• Medicines are usually not needed to stop the vomiting, although your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic if the child has a bacterial infection. Do not give your child any medicine without first asking your doctor.

Call Your Doctor If...

• Vomiting is not better in 24 hours.

Seek Care Immediately If...

• Your child is overly drowsy or confused.
• You child has sharp or constant abdominal pain, painful or frequent urination, labored breathing, fever that doesn't go away, a high temperature, or a severe cough.

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