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By: Ikedi Ani-okoye

Vomiting and Diarrhoea

Extremely common symptoms in babies and children, diarrhoea and vomiting usually clear up quickly Without any special treatment. Viral gastroenteritis and food intolerance are common causes. If diarrhoea and/or vomiting is profuse and persistent there is a danger of dehydration, particularly in babies and very young children. It is important to make sure the child drinks plenty of clear fluids for the duration of the illness. If other symptoms develop or there is no improvement after 48 hours, you should seek a doctor's advice.

Babies vomiting

Vomiting and diarrhoea without a serious cause occur quite often in babies because their digestive systems are still immature.

A little vomitting after feeding is normal and is called "posseting". Some babies are prone to bringing up a lot of their feeds, which is worrying only if the baby is not gaining weight.

Babies may vomit as a sign of a general infection.
You should ask for medical advice with:
Sudden onset of vomiting. Unwell baby with a fever. Green-stained vomit. Projectile vomiting. Signs of dehydration.

Breast-fed babies have runny bright yellow stools that smeU like cottage cheese; babies on formula often have dark green, liquid bowel motions. Diarrhoea is different - watery frequent, and often foul-smelling stools.

Older children vomiting

There are many causes of vomiting and diarrhoea in children, but the most common is viral gastroenteritis. Although this gets better without treatment, dehydration may develop if the child does not drink enough. Encourage your child to drink clear, diluted fluids and avoid fizzy and milk-based drinks. An alternative is rehydration sachets chat can be bought from the pharmacist.

First aid for a baby with vomitting and/or diarrhoea

Stop formula feeds for 12 hours. Give rehydration fluids from the pharmacist, then try half-strength formula feeds.

If breast-feeding, do not stop, but include bottles of water between feeds,
Continue to give regular feeds, and seek medical help if the problem persists for more than 48 hours or if you are worried.

First aid for a vomitting child

Give sips of fluid to the child in small amounts, and at frequent intervals. This way, the fluid is more likely to stay in the stomach.
If they feel feverish, try giving them some paracetamol.
Keep them off food white they are vomiting. Once it settles, try bland foods such as rice, soup and bread.