How to Treat Diarrhea and Vomiting

Diarrhea and vomiting are unpleasant symptoms of many viruses and bacterial infections. If these symptoms aren't treated, dehydration---a potentially deadly condition in which the body loses too much fluid---can occur. Children are more likely to develop dehydration than adults and should be monitored carefully if they are vomiting or experiencing diarrhea. While most cases resolve with home treatment, it does not always provide relief. If you continue to experience these symptoms despite home care, seek medical treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Clear liquids Bland foods Ice chips

Instructions

1. Drink clear liquids when you have been vomiting or experiencing diarrhea. Wait until several hours after you have last vomited to begin ingesting clear fluids; begin with ice chips, working your way toward clear liquids when you can keep down the ice chips. If you have diarrhea, you can either suck on ice chips or drink clear liquids, depending on which one you feel that you can handle.

2. Use an oral rehydrating solution, such as Pedialyte, Ceralyte or Oralyte, if you have been vomiting or have had diarrhea longer than 24 hours. Using these solutions will help prevent dehydration by replacing lost fluids and minerals.

3. Eat bland foods once you can keep down clear liquids without vomiting or having diarrhea. Use the BRAT diet as your guide for which foods you can eat: bananas, rice, applesauce and (dry) toast. Crackers or plain bread can also be eaten.

4. Rest while you are experiencing symptoms. Trying to push yourself to continue your daily activities while vomiting or experiencing diarrhea can lengthen your recovery time.

5. Limit oral medication while experiencing symptoms. Ask your doctor if you can temporarily stop your medication. Oral medication can irritate the stomach and aggravate symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Be alert for signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, thirst, dry mouth, weakness, dizziness or light-headedness. If your young child or baby becomes dehydrated, you may notice fewer wet diapers, excessive sleepiness or crying without tear production. You can consume a number of clear liquids when you aren't feeling well: chicken or vegetable broth, water, apple juice, flavored ice, flat soda, gelatin or sports drinks. Drink small amounts of these liquids until you are sure that you are able to tolerate them.

• Avoid eating spicy foods for 24 to 48 hours once you can successfully tolerate bland foods. Also, avoid foods that are harder to digest, such as fats, oils, dairy products, caffeine and alcohol.

References

• Cleveland Clinic
• American Family Physician
• Mayo Clinic

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish