Vomiting

Vomiting in children is a common response to anything from illness, ingestion of toxic substances, or even emotional stress brought on by school pressure or tension in the home. A single vomiting incident is not usually a cause for concern. But your pediatrician should be called immediately if vomiting is accompanied by the following:

• Swelling or sharp pain in the abdomen
• Blood or bile (green material) in the vomit
• Lethargy, irritability, or confusion
• Diarrhea for more than 12 hours
• Dehydration signs such as dry lips or scant amount of urine.

Despite the discomfort involved with vomiting, parents need to take precaution against dehydration due to fluid loss, especially if accompanied by fever or diarrhea. Children generally are able to take fluids first and should be encouraged to drink frequently even if only a few sips at a time. A commercial rehydrating solution is suitable for toddlers and preschoolers while a school-age child may prefer a 50/50 blend of a sports drink and water. Drinks with caffeine and/or a high sugar content may make the fluid loss worse.

If vomiting reoccurs after drinking, wait 1-2 hours with no fluids or food, then start with spoonfuls of liquid or sucking on ice chips. If the vomiting is accompanied by a fever and stomachache, and lasts more than 6 hours, call your physician. Don't give medications to stop vomiting without the advice of your physician.

When a child hasn't vomited for several hours and can keep fluids down, let them try a small portion of toast, oatmeal, bananas, applesauce or other cooked fruit, or a soft-boiled egg. Don't give milk or dairy products or raw fruits and vegetables and bran cereals until your child's stomach feels settled.

Please do not return a child to school until they are free from vomiting, diarrhea, and fever for 24 hours.

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