Vomiting & Diarrhea
Vomiting and diarrhea occur in children commonly. They are a part of many childhood diseases. They may occur together or as isolated vomiting / diarrhea alone. It is necessary to keep watch on a child who is vomiting or passing frequent stools to prevent them from getting dehydrated. Hence, the following measures are recommended:
When child is vomiting with / without diarrhea:
- Give fluids. Avoid colas, tea, fruit juices etc., as they contain more sugar which can worsen the dehydration. Preferably give home made ORS (Oral Rehydrating Solution). ~In a glass of water (200ml) add 2 tsp of sugar and a pinch of salt. Give this ORS frequently (1/2 to 1 ounce every 15 – 20 minutes. Other fluids like coconut water, rice kanji, dal, butter milk (chaas) etc. may be given. The idea is to give small, frequent feeds to control the vomiting. Gradually increase the amount if the child tolerates the fluids.
- In an infant, continue with breast-feeding as it is the best feeding.
- If vomiting improves after giving fluids, gradually return to the child’s regular diet.
- If vomiting does not improve or the child appears lethargic, ill or just not well, consult your doctor immediately.
When a child has diarrhea:
- Give your child extra fluids to drink. Home made ORS, coconut milk, rice kanji, dal, chaas, lassi with salt, etc are recommended.
- Do not give tea, colas, fruit juice or fluids with extra sugar.
- Milk is usually recommended unless the child has prolonged diarrhea or lactose intolerance.
- Avoid over the counter medications to control diarrhea.
- A bland diet is recommended for 1 – 2 days. Give foods like khiedi (rice gruel), rice and curd, boiled vegetables, soups, bananas.
Warning signs. Call you doctor immediately if the following occur:
- No urine for 8 – 12 hours or a small amount of dark urine.
- Increased lethargy
- Excessive sleepiness
- Dry mouth, lips and no tears when crying
- Vomiting of blood or bile
- Blood in diarrhea
- Severe headache, neck pain or stiff neck