My child has vomiting and diarrhoea - what do I do?

My Child Has Vomiting and Diarrhoea - What Do I Do?

Recognising the Symptoms

Vomiting and diarrhoea are common symptoms in children and can be caused by a variety of factors such as viral infections, food poisoning, and sometimes medications. It's crucial to monitor the symptoms closely. If your child is displaying persistent vomiting, frequent loose stools, abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration, it's time to take action.

Hydration is Key

One of the main concerns with vomiting and diarrhoea is dehydration. Ensure your child stays hydrated by offering small sips of rehydration solutions like Dioralyte, available at UK pharmacies. Avoid giving sugary drinks or milk, as these can worsen the symptoms. Encourage your child to take small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration salts (ORS) every few minutes.

Monitor for Dehydration

Signs of dehydration in children include dry mouth, no tears when crying, sunken eyes, and reduced frequency of urination. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to seek medical advice. NHS guidelines also recommend checking for lethargic or irritable behaviour as a sign of dehydration.

Dietary Adjustments

While your child is recovering, gradually reintroduce bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (known as the BRAT diet). Avoid fatty, spicy, or dairy-rich foods until symptoms fully resolve. Start with small portions and increase as tolerance improves.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If vomiting and diarrhoea persist for more than 24-48 hours, or if your child is under six months old, consult your GP or the NHS 111 service. Severe symptoms such as blood in vomit or stools, a swollen abdomen, or persistent high fever warrant immediate medical attention.

Preventing Spread

Vomiting and diarrhoea, especially if caused by a virus, can be highly contagious. Ensure good hygiene practices by frequent handwashing with soap, especially after bathroom use and before meals. Disinfect common touch surfaces and keep the sick child away from siblings to prevent spreading.

Post-Recovery Care

Once your child begins to feel better, continue to monitor their hydration and nutrition intake. Gradually reintroduce normal foods and ensure they get plenty of rest. Maintain good hygiene practices to prevent recurrence. Remember, while it can be worrying to see your child unwell, these symptoms are usually manageable at home with proper care. Always follow NHS guidelines and don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice if needed.