VOMITING

MOST VOMITING IS CAUSED BY:

 

Less than one year:

Breast fed:

  • No solids or liquids for 30-60minutes after vomiting.
  • Provide breast milk in smaller amounts (shorter feedings) more frequently than usual.
  • After 4 hours of no vomiting, return to normal breastfeeding.

Formula fed:

  • No solids or liquids for 30-60 minutes after vomiting.
  • Offer oral rehydration solutions (Pedialyte) or other clear fluids (like sugar water or tea).

Avoid plain water.

  • Give small amounts one tsp every few minutes and increase gradually.
  • After 4 hours of no vomiting, return to formula.

Older children:

  • No solids or liquids (especially milk) for 30-60 minutes after vomiting
  • Oral rehydration solutions or clear fluids (Gatorade, chamomile tea, popsicles, Sprite or Ginger ale) avoid plain water.
  • Give small amounts: one tsp every few min and increase gradually as tolerated.
  • When your child feels hungry, start feeding them. Give them whatever they like; you do not have to start with bland starchy foods (crackers, toast, rice etc.)
  • Resume regular diet after 24 hrs. of no vomiting

Common mistakes in treatment of vomiting:

  • Giving liquids or solids too soon
  • Giving as much liquid as your child will take instead of starting small and gradually increasing the amount.
  • Using medication, the most effective way to deal with vomiting is changing the diet.
  • Giving a whole bottle/cup of liquid. If they see a whole bottle/cup, they will want to drink it and subsequently vomit again.

Call our office if:

  • No urine for over 8 hours.
  • Any blood in the vomit.
  • Fever for more than 72 hours.
  • Localized abdominal pain (generalized cramping may be normal).