Encourage your child to take small, slow sips of liquids frequently, every five to 10 minutes if possible. Try to have a beverage by them at all times. [1] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Stick to clear liquids for the most part. [2] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Some sour, carbonated drinks like ginger ale and lemonade could also help. [3] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Ice pops, Popsicles, Italian ices, and other ice-based treats can take the place of liquids. These should be water-based frozen treats, not ice cream (the milk solids will often irritate sore stomachs). While these should not be the sole intake of liquids, many children will happily enjoy these treats. Also, because they cannot slurp or gulp down these items, they tend to go at a pace more friendly for the stomach. Soups can help hydrate, too. Choose clear, broth-based soups and avoid tomato, potato, and cream based soups. Soups like the classic chicken noodle soup is an excellent choice. Be careful with sports drinks. While they contain water, electrolytes, and taste good, they are highly concentrated. This can actually make things worse. A pediatric re-hydration fluid or water is usually better.
Most children who are actively vomiting will not want to eat anyway. A few children will really want to eat while nauseous; they usually confuse stomach cramps with hunger pains. If your child has a habit of this, be aware and wary.
Many pediatricians used to recommend what is the BRAT diet. This stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These foods were believed to be easier to digest, allowing the gut a chance to rest and recover. Modern pediatricians feel the diet lacks enough nutrients to promote healing. However, for the first few days a child is sick the BRAT diet may help. Such foods may be easier to keep down due to nausea. Try feeding your child these foods and after a day or two resume a normal healthy diet filled with healthy carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables. [8] X Research source Gelatins (such as Jello) and crackers may also be easier for a child to keep down. If they are able to eat such foods, try cereal, fruit, and salty or high protein foods. [9] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source High fat and spicy foods should be avoided as they can worsen symptoms. You should not try to feed your child solid foods until at least six hours after vomiting. [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Your child should see their doctor if the vomiting lasts more than 24 hours, or 12 hours in a baby under one year old. Babies and small toddlers are much more prone to dehydration than older children. An infant who has been constantly throwing up may need medical intervention far quicker than a teen. If your child shows signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, no tears when crying, weakness or dizziness, or decreased urination or activity, they should see the doctor. If your child appears to be vomiting blood or has bloody stools, take them to the ER immediately. This could be a sign of a serious medical condition. [11] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source If your child has a high fever with vomiting or diarrhea, or has severe abdominal pain, they should be seen by a doctor. If your child cannot keep clear liquids down, they may need an IV to rehydrate or a prescription medicine for nausea and vomiting. If you believe the cause is something that your child ate, you should take them in to rule out food poisoning or a nasty illness. [12] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Some medications are used to stop or slow down the attacks. They include anti-nausea medications, anti-anxiety medications, and sometimes sedatives. [14] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Preventative therapies are designed to reduce or eliminate bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. They’re more likely to be prescribed if your child gets sick frequently. [15] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Stress management training helps a person become aware of early signs of stress reactions. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, are usually taught early on. A therapist may also teach your child behavioral strategies to reduce stress. [16] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source If you’re interested in stress management therapy for your child, talk to your doctor. They can give you a referral to a therapist. You might also be able to find a therapist by going through your insurance provider.
