Dial A Doctor Help to Care for a Vomiting Child

Vomiting can be a normal symptom of many illnesses in children and young babies. Usually, this does not need to be a cause of concern, providing the child appears to be otherwise well. So, here the Dial A Doctor team explore how you can care for a vomiting child.

The Causes of Vomiting

In children, there are three types of vomiting. Posseting is where an infant brings up a little vomit after a feed. Reflux is caused by a stomach valve opening accidentally, which is common and not harmful to babies; most infants grow out of this condition once they are walking. Finally, projectile vomiting is where the stomach contents forcibly come up. This does happen in young children occasionally, but if it happens after several feeds, you should check with your dial a doctor to rule out an underlying medical condition.

There are numerous causes of infant vomiting including motion sickness, minor infections, and gastro-oesophageal reflux, but vomiting may be an indication of a more serious illness. Children can vomit due to a severe infection such as meningitis or conditions such as appendicitis. If the vomiting progresses to loose bowel movements and a fever, it is most likely a viral infection.

If the vomiting persists for over twelve hours, there is an increased risk of dehydration, so you should call a dial a doctor.

Self Care for Vomiting Young Children

In most cases, you’ll notice that once your child has vomited, they will quickly recover. After they have been sick, your child is likely to feel thirsty or hungry, so be sure to offer drinks regularly to prevent dehydration. Your local pharmacy is also likely to offer rehydration drinks, but you can also dilute regular fruit juices with water.

Babies bottle or breastfed should maintain their normal feed schedule. Ensure that any feed bottles are carefully sterilised.

Children on solid foods should be guided by their appetite. There is no evidence to suggest it beneficial to fast after vomiting. High carbohydrate foods such as potatoes, pasta or bread can help to maintain energy levels, while soups can help to restore fluid levels.

To help avoid spreading infection, you should pay extra attention and care to cleanliness and personal hygiene. Immediately remove and wash bedding or clothing that has been contaminated with vomit, disinfect any surfaces that have been exposed to vomit with detergent and thoroughly wash your hands after you clean up any vomit.

After vomiting, your child may feel tired and irritable, so allow your child to rest. Avoid sending a child who has been vomiting to school or daycare for at least 24 hours following the last bout of vomiting. If the child continues to vomit or appears to be uncomfortable, it is a good idea to consult a doctor.

If you have an unwell child and need further help and advice from dial a doctor, Perth parents should call us. After Hours offers full dial a doctor services and our team is available to address any of your queries or concerns.

If you would like further guidance to improve your health and wellbeing from an after hours GP, Perth residents should call us.