What causes gastroenteritis in children. How to recognize signs of dehydration in children. What are the best methods for treating gastroenteritis and preventing dehydration at home. When should you seek medical attention for a child with gastroenteritis.

Understanding Gastroenteritis in Children

Gastroenteritis is a common ailment in children, characterized by vomiting and diarrhea. This condition can lead to dehydration if not managed properly. But what exactly causes gastroenteritis?

In most cases, viruses are the culprits behind gastroenteritis in children. However, bacteria and parasites can also be responsible. Regardless of the cause, the symptoms can be distressing for both the child and the parents.

The good news is that most children recover from gastroenteritis without medication within a few days. The key to managing this condition lies in preventing dehydration, which can occur rapidly in infants and young children due to their smaller body size and reduced fluid reserves.

Recognizing the Signs of Dehydration in Children

Dehydration occurs when a child loses more fluids than they take in. This can happen quickly, especially in younger children. But how can you tell if your child is becoming dehydrated?

• Increased thirst, but drinking leads to vomiting
• Dry lips and mouth
• Dark, strong-smelling urine or infrequent urination
• Dizziness when sitting or standing (in older children)
• Reduced tear production when crying (in babies)
• Sunken eyes (in babies and toddlers)
• Lethargy or difficulty waking
• Persistent vomiting after drinking

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to take action promptly to prevent further dehydration.

Effective Home Treatment for Gastroenteritis

When your child has gastroenteritis, the primary goal is to prevent dehydration. How can you achieve this at home?

Breastfeeding and Formula Feeding

For infants, continue breastfeeding if possible, and try to increase the frequency. If your baby is formula-fed, stick to the regular formula but attempt to feed more often. These familiar sources of nutrition can help maintain hydration and provide comfort to your child.

Fluids for Older Children

For older children, ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial. Encourage your child to drink as much as possible to replace the fluids lost through diarrhea and vomiting. While any liquid is better than none, some choices are more beneficial than others.

Solid Foods

If your child isn’t experiencing nausea or vomiting, they can continue eating regular foods. Opt for easily digestible options like noodles, rice, lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and yogurt. These foods can provide essential nutrients and help solidify stools.

The Role of Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) in Treating Dehydration

When it comes to treating dehydration, Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) are the gold standard. But what makes these solutions so effective?

ORS are specially formulated drinks designed to replenish both fluids and electrolytes lost during bouts of diarrhea and vomiting. They contain a precise balance of water, sugar, and essential minerals like sodium and potassium.

Common brands of ORS include Pedialyte, Infalyte, Rehydralyte, Resol, and Naturalyte. Generic versions are also available and equally effective. These solutions are readily available at most drugstores and grocery stores.

How to Administer ORS

To effectively use ORS, follow these steps:

1. Start with small amounts: Give your child one or two teaspoons every one to two minutes.
2. Gradually increase: If tolerated well, slowly increase to larger sips every 5 minutes.
3. Transition back to regular diet: Once your child is no longer dehydrated and can keep fluids down, reintroduce regular food and drinks.

This method allows for the absorption of fluids even if some vomiting persists, helping to correct dehydration over time.

Common Misconceptions About Treating Gastroenteritis

When it comes to treating gastroenteritis in children, several misconceptions can lead to improper care. What are some of these myths, and what’s the truth behind them?

Myth: Clear Liquids Are Always Best

Many parents believe that clear liquids like soft drinks, tea, apple juice, or sports drinks are ideal for rehydration. However, these drinks often lack the right balance of water, sugar, and electrolytes. In fact, they may even exacerbate diarrhea due to their high sugar content.

Myth: Anti-Diarrheal Medications Are Necessary

Contrary to popular belief, medications for diarrhea are generally not effective in treating gastroenteritis in children. The focus should be on preventing and treating dehydration rather than stopping the diarrhea itself.

Myth: Fasting Helps the Stomach Recover

Some parents might think withholding food will help the stomach recover. However, if a child isn’t vomiting, continuing to eat can actually help maintain nutrient levels and support recovery.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Gastroenteritis

While many cases of gastroenteritis can be managed at home, there are situations where medical attention becomes necessary. But how do you know when it’s time to call the doctor?

As a general rule, if your child is under two years old and has been experiencing vomiting and diarrhea for more than 12 hours, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. This is particularly important if the vomiting is frequent, the diarrhea is severe, or if there’s also a fever present.

You should seek immediate medical attention if your child:

• Experiences abdominal pain along with vomiting
• Has blood in their diarrhea
• Is under six months of age
• Shows signs of severe dehydration (lethargy, sunken eyes, no tears when crying)
• Has a high fever (over 102°F or 39°C)
• Hasn’t urinated in 6-8 hours

These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition that requires prompt medical intervention.

Preventing Gastroenteritis in Children

While it’s not always possible to prevent gastroenteritis, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of your child contracting this illness. What are some effective prevention strategies?

Hand Hygiene

Proper hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of gastroenteritis. Teach your children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom.

Food Safety

Ensure that all food is properly prepared and stored. Avoid raw or undercooked meats, and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.

Vaccination

Some forms of gastroenteritis, such as rotavirus, can be prevented through vaccination. Consult with your pediatrician about available vaccines that could protect your child.

Environmental Cleanliness

Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces in your home, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. This can help reduce the spread of germs that cause gastroenteritis.

Long-Term Effects of Recurrent Gastroenteritis in Children

While most cases of gastroenteritis resolve without complications, repeated episodes can potentially lead to long-term effects. What are some of these potential consequences?

Nutritional Deficiencies

Frequent bouts of gastroenteritis can interfere with nutrient absorption, potentially leading to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals. This can affect a child’s growth and development if not addressed.

Gut Microbiome Imbalance

Recurrent gastroenteritis can disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This imbalance may contribute to digestive issues and potentially affect the immune system.

Dehydration-Related Complications

Repeated episodes of dehydration can strain various organs, particularly the kidneys. In severe cases, this could lead to long-term kidney problems.

Developmental Impacts

Frequent illnesses can interfere with a child’s daily activities, potentially affecting their social and educational development. It’s important to work closely with healthcare providers to manage recurrent gastroenteritis effectively.

By understanding these potential long-term effects, parents can be more vigilant in preventing and managing gastroenteritis in their children, seeking appropriate medical care when necessary to minimize these risks.

Treating Gastroenteritis and Dehydration in Your Child

What is gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis can cause vomiting and diarrhea (very frequent, watery bowel movements). This illness is very common in children.

Gastroenteritis is usually caused by a virus. It can also be caused by bacteria (germs) or parasites.

Most children with gastroenteritis get better without medicine in a few days. However, it is very important to prevent dehydration.

What is dehydration?

Dehydration is the “drying out” of the body that happens when your child loses more fluids than he or she is able to drink.

Dehydration happens quickly in infants and very small children. These children have less “extra” fluids in their bodies to lose.

How do I prevent dehydration in my child?

• If you breast-feed your baby, keep on doing this, and try to breast-feed more often.

• If you bottle-feed, keep using the regular formula, and try to feed your child more often.

• If your child is older, make sure that he or she drinks enough liquids to replace the fluids that are lost in diarrhea and vomiting.

• An older child who is not nauseated (feeling like throwing up) or vomiting can keep eating regular foods. Encourage your child to drink as much liquid as he or she can. Any liquids your child will drink are OK, as long as your child eats some solid foods, too. Fatty foods and drinks that are high in sugar (such as juices and soft drinks) might make the diarrhea a little worse. It helps to feed your child solid foods like noodles or rice, along with meat that isn’t fatty. Fruits and vegetables and yogurt may be the best choices.

If your child is nauseated but not vomiting, give him or her small sips of liquid every few minutes. This is less likely to cause vomiting than drinking a lot at once. If your child will not eat any solid foods, is vomiting over and over, or will not drink liquids, you should try one of the special “Oral Rehydration Solution” drinks described on the next page.

How do I know if my child is getting dehydrated?

You can suspect dehydration if your child has had vomiting or diarrhea and has any of these signs:

• Feeling thirsty but drinking liquids makes the child vomit

• Dry lips and mouth

• A dark color or a strong smell to the urine (and not urinating very often or very much)

• Feeling dizzy when sitting or standing up (in older children)

• Little or no tears when crying (in babies)

• Sunken eyes (in babies and toddlers)

• Not paying attention to toys or television, or even being difficult to wake up (this is a sign of very bad dehydration)

• Vomiting up everything he or she drinks or eats

How do I treat dehydration?

If the dehydration isn’t too bad, you can care for your child at home with help from your doctor. It takes a lot of care and time. It is best to use special liquids called “Oral Rehydration Solutions” (or “ORS” for short). These are drinks designed for children who are dehydrated. They contain water, sugar and a special mix of mineral salts like sodium and potassium.

Other “clear liquids” like soft drinks, tea, apple juice, Jello-water, chicken broth or “sport drinks” like Gatorade don’t have the right mix of water, sugar and mineral salts. They might even make the diarrhea worse.

Drug stores and grocery stores carry several brands of ORS, with brand names like Pedialyte, Infalyte, Rehydralyte, Resol and Naturalyte. You might also find “generic” brands of ORS. They all work the same and are safe when you follow the directions.

Start by giving your child one or two teaspoons every one or two minutes. This adds up to over a cup an hour. Even if your child vomits again, quite a lot of this fluid will stay down. That helps fix the dehydration.

If your child does well, you can slowly give bigger sips a little less often—every 5 minutes. When your child is no longer dehydrated and isn’t nauseated or vomiting, you can start giving regular food and drinks again.

Can I use medicine for diarrhea?

Medicines for diarrhea don’t work very well. The best treatment is to prevent or treat dehydration.

When should I call my doctor?

In general, if your child is under two years old and has vomiting and diarrhea for more than 12 hours, you should take him or her to your doctor. This is very important if the child is vomiting often, or if the amount of diarrhea is large, or if the child also has a fever. Call your doctor right away if your child:

• Has pain in the stomach along with the vomiting

• Has blood in the diarrhea

• Is under six months of age

• Has any of the signs or symptoms of dehydration mentioned in the list above.

Drinks to Prevent Dehydration When Your Child is Vomiting

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Health Issues

Health Issues

By: Meghan Horn, MD, FAAP & Christine Waasdorp Hurtado, MD, FAAP

When your child is throwing up (vomiting), it’s easy for them to become
dehydrated. The risk is even greater when
fever causes them to sweat more or they are also losing fluid through
diarrhea. Depending on how severe or how long the vomiting lasts, your child may lose important electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and chloride.

If your child is otherwise healthy, missing a meal or two when they’re nauseous and vomiting won’t hurt them. However, it’s important to make sure they keep getting fluids to help avoid dehydration. Read on for tips to help keep your child hydrated at home when they’re sick.

What causes vomiting?

Vomiting is a common symptom with many childhood illnesses. It happens when the abdominal muscles and diaphragm contract, while the stomach relaxes. This reflex happens when the body’s “vomiting center” is triggered. This reflex is the body’s way of protecting itself against toxins, being harmfully full and other gastrointestinal, neurologic, hormonal and psychiatric triggers.

What is the best way to prevent dehydration in my child?

Oral rehydration therapy is an effective and safe method for preventing dehydration at home.
For the first 24 hours or so, consider limiting solid foods and encourage them to suck or drink small amounts of fluids every few minutes over a few hours. The goal should be having them take in at least 1 ounce (30ml) per hour. Liquids help to prevent dehydration and are less likely than solid foods to trigger further vomiting.

How to give liquids

You can give your child liquid with age-appropriate bottle or cup. If your child cannot sip from a bottle or cup, try using a medicine cup, syringe or teaspoon.

What kind of fluids should I be giving my child?

6 months to 1 year:

• undiluted breast milk or formula. If not tolerated, consider a commercial rehydration solution that contains sugars and salts. Do not use water.

1 year and older:

Note: Be careful with commercial sports drinks. They replace salts, but they can also contain large amounts of sugar, which can make diarrhea worse.

When to call your pediatrician

Call your child’s doctor right away if your child is too sick to drink, becomes lethargic, or shows any
signs and symptoms of dehydration. These include:

• urinating less frequently (for infants, fewer than 6 wet diapers daily)

• dry tongue and inside of mouth

• dry eyes and fewer tears when crying

• excessive sleepiness or fussiness

• wrinkled skin

• in babies, a sunken “soft spot” on their head

• in older children, weakness dizziness when trying to stand

Why are babies & young children at greater risk of dehydration?

Young children are especially prone to dehydration. This is because their bodies are less efficient at conserving water than older children and adults. In addition, their small size means that it takes less fluid loss to lead to dehydration.

Remember
Talk with your pediatrician any time you are concerned about your child’s health.

More information

• Signs of Dehydration in Infants & Children
  
• 
  Vomiting With Diarrhea
• 
  Treating Dehydration with Electrolyte Solution
• 
  Diarrhea in Children: What Parents Need to Know

Last Updated

2/7/2023

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Gastroenterology, Hepatology ＆ Nutrition (Copyright © 2023)

The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

Dehydration in children: how to prevent and recognize

Latest news

Dehydration is a situation when the human body loses a large amount of fluid necessary for the functioning of vital organs.

Why are children at risk and more susceptible to dehydration?

Children, along with the elderly, are at risk and more than susceptible to dehydration due to a combination of several factors:

First because they are a group of people who due to their age are more likely to suffer from infections that can cause fever and gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea that lead to loss fluids in the body. However, dehydration can occur not only with gastroenteritis, but with other infections, such as respiratory (colds, sinusitis, pneumonia, bronchitis) or urinary tract infections.

Second , because in the child’s body a higher percentage of water . In a newborn, for example, about 70% of his body weight is water. This percentage gradually decreases as the child grows up, until it reaches 50-60% in adulthood, depending on age and gender.

Thirdly, , because with a smaller body volume, the ratio between body surface and weight is higher than . This means that in children, the loss of moisture through the skin and mucous membranes by evaporation is proportionally greater than in adults.

It should also be added that the compensation mechanisms that the body starts when it begins to lose moisture, are still insufficiently developed at an early age of life. The ability to concentrate urine and thereby reduce water loss is less in a newborn than in a school-age child or adult, making young children more vulnerable in these situations.

Finally, in the case of young children, they have limited access to liquids because they0009 are unable to drink on their own and depend on adults to provide them with water to drink in situations of dehydration due to illness or hot weather.

Thus, newborns and infants are most at risk of dehydration.

Dehydration and medications for chronic conditions

Although children often need to take medications for chronic illnesses, be aware that some medications can exacerbate symptoms of dehydration . An obvious example of this type of medication is the diuretics (furosemide, spironolactone…) which increase the loss of water through the urine to compensate for problems with the heart, kidneys, etc.

It should also be taken into account that if a child is taking any medications for chronic diseases, their blood levels, as well as their therapeutic effects (both beneficial and adverse), may temporarily change when a situation of dehydration occurs. This does not mean that we should be worried, but we should consider it, for example, in the case of children receiving antiepileptic drugs , since in a situation of dehydration, the drugs will no longer work and the epilepsy may temporarily decompensate.

What are the symptoms of dehydration?

On the one hand, symptoms are associated with the loss of fluid and electrolytes (mineral salts), and on the other hand, with compensation mechanisms that the body triggers to restore the loss of moisture. Some of the symptoms of dehydration:

1. Deterioration in general well-being
2. Dry mouth, lack of saliva or whitish foamy saliva
3. Paleness
4. Sunken eyes
5. Abnormal breathing 9 0010
6. Crying without tears
7. Reduced urge to urinate
8. Increased thirst

These symptoms, along with other clinical signs, are assessed on various scales used to assess the degree of dehydration in a child (Gorelik Scale, American Academy of Pediatrics Scale, Clinical Dehydration Scale. ..). If one or more symptoms are observed in a child, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible .

How can dehydration be prevented?

In the situations of symptoms of the disease described above (fever, vomiting, diarrhea), it is very important to offer the child plenty of fluids to maintain a normal state of hydration. In addition to water, the liquid you offer your child should contain glucose (sugar) and mineral salts because not only water is lost during vomiting and diarrhea, but also sugar and minerals such as sodium, potassium and chlorine. These substances are vital for maintaining the functioning of the organs and systems of our body. Often their levels change in situations of dehydration (hyper or hyponatremia, hypoglycemia …), which can aggravate the symptoms of the disease. Therefore , it is recommended to replenish fluid loss by using Oral Rehydration Serum, which can be purchased at pharmacies.

In other situations where the loss of moisture in the body is increased due to perspiration, such as during summer and during prolonged physical activity, it is recommended to use water as the main rehydrator , accompanied by foods that contain carbohydrates, mineral salts and water, such as like fruits. Sports isotonic drinks are not needed for children and their habitual use can be detrimental to health.

What to do if your child has nausea and vomiting: tips for parents

Contents

• 1 How to help your child with nausea and vomiting: tips for parents
  • 1.1 Understanding the causes of nausea and vomiting in a child
  • 1.2 Mode food and rest for a child
    • 1.2.1 The importance of proper diet and rest
  • 1.3 When to see a doctor
  • 1.4 Home treatment: things you can do yourself
  • 1.5 How to help your child cope with pain and discomfort
  • 1.6 Hygiene rules for nausea and vomiting
  • 1. 7 What to drink and eat for a child with nausea and vomiting
  • 1.8 Pro preventive measures to prevent Nausea and vomiting in children
  • 1.9 Relationship between stress and digestive disorders in children
  • 1.10 Medicines to help relieve nausea and vomiting
  • 1.11 Treatment of nausea and vomiting in children of all ages
    • 1.11.1 Young children (under 3 years old)
    • 1.11.2 Older children (3-12 years old)
    • 1.11.3 Adolescents (over 12 years old)
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What can be done to prevent nausea and vomiting in a child?
      • 1.13.0.2 What should I do if my child has nausea and vomiting while traveling in a car?
      • 1.13.0.3 Why can a child get nausea and vomiting after eating dairy products?
      • 1.13.0.4 What should be done if a child develops nausea and vomiting due to a cold?
      • 1.13.0.5 How can nausea and vomiting in a child be cured if it is caused by digestive disorders?
      • 1. 13.0.6 What to eat and drink for nausea and vomiting in a child?

What should I do if my child has nausea and vomiting? Tips and advice for parents with such symptoms. How to prevent dehydration and when to see a doctor.

A common cause of nausea and vomiting in children is various infections or viruses that cause gastrointestinal upset. However, this condition can also be caused by other factors, such as overeating, allergies to certain foods, stress, or fatigue. No matter how serious the cause, it is important to know what to do in such a situation in order to help the child recover faster.

The first thing to do when a child has nausea and vomiting is to watch him and make sure he stays away from food for a while. In addition, it is very important to remember to keep your child hydrated by regularly drinking water or liquids so that he does not dehydrate.

What means and measures can help a child in such a situation? What foods should be avoided to speed up recovery? This article will cover everything parents need to know to help their little patient deal with nausea and vomiting, as well as a balanced diet during the recovery period.

Understanding Nausea and Vomiting in a Child

Nausea and vomiting in a child can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of these may be serious and require immediate medical attention, and some may be associated with minor health problems.

• Infectious diseases. Viruses and bacteria that cause gastroenteritis can cause nausea and vomiting in a child. These infections can be transmitted through contact, food and water. Usually accompanied by diarrhea, loose stools and a strong desire to go to the toilet.
• Food intolerance. Reactions to certain foods can cause nausea and vomiting in a child. This reaction can occur immediately after eating or several hours later.
• Diseases of the heart or lungs. This is not a very common cause of nausea and vomiting in children, but it can happen. If your child is having difficulty breathing or severe chest pain, see a doctor.
• Overexertion and stress. The child may experience nausea and vomiting due to physical or emotional stress. For example, nervous tension before an exam or a craze on the rides in the park can cause a similar reaction.

It is important to remember that if a child experiences nausea and vomiting, it is necessary to observe him and take appropriate measures in each case. If the child’s condition does not improve or worsens, see a doctor for further diagnosis and treatment.

Child nutrition and rest

The importance of proper nutrition and rest

Proper nutrition and rest is a key factor in a child’s health and well-being. Violation of the regimen can lead to digestive disorders, decreased immunity and fatigue of the body.

No less important is the mode of rest. Children need 8-10 hours of sleep a day, depending on age. Regular walks in the fresh air help to improve health and maintain physical fitness.

Parents should remember that proper diet and rest not only helps to avoid various diseases, but also contributes to the formation of healthy habits throughout life.

When to See a Doctor

If vomiting and nausea persists for more than 24 hours, does not stop even after taking medication, is not accompanied by other cold and flu symptoms, and gets worse over time, see a doctor immediately.

If a child experiences a feeling of severe pain in the abdomen and his vomiting is accompanied by other adverse symptoms, such as high fever, headache, impaired respiratory and cardiac functions, then, of course, you need to call an ambulance.

In addition, it is worth paying attention to the nature of the vomit: if it contains blood, has a greenish tint, smells of rot or other smell uncharacteristic of ordinary vomiting, then these may be signs of more serious diseases, such as gastritis, stomach ulcers or intestinal bleeding, and such cases require mandatory medical attention.

In addition, if the child is immunocompromised, is taking any medications, may have allergic reactions to medications or food, and seek medical attention immediately in case of vomiting and nausea.

It is important to remember that parental experience and care cannot replace a qualified medical examination and consultation, and in case of doubt and vague symptoms, it is always best to seek specialist help.

Home treatment: what you can do yourself

When a child develops nausea and vomiting, parents can use several simple and safe methods to help the child:

1. Drink plenty of fluids. Children need to drink water, oral solutions of glucose and electrolytes, and special solutions of rheohydrone and gastoralite.
2. Keep a diet. During vomiting and nausea, limit food intake and go on a light diet consisting of broths, decoctions, baked apples, rice and bananas.
3. Create a comfortable environment in the room. Keep the child in a quiet, bright and cool room. Loud noises, bright lights, and heat can cause nausea and vomiting.
4. Apply a cool compress. Applying a cool compress to the forehead and back of the head may help relieve nausea.

If symptoms do not disappear within a day or worsen, a doctor should be consulted. Doctors may prescribe treatment, which may include antibiotics, probiotics, antiemetics, and antihistamines.

How to help your child cope with pain and discomfort

Provide a comfortable environment for relaxation. If your child has nausea and vomiting, he should lie down and try to relax. Prepare a comfortable place to rest where the child can relax and will not be disturbed by extraneous sounds and smells.

Monitor your child’s nutrition. If the child experiences nausea and vomiting, offer light foods such as biscuits or crackers. It is important that the child eats slowly and does not overeat. Avoid fatty and heavy foods, which can aggravate symptoms.

Offer the child water. If the child cannot drink water from a full glass, offer him small sips or weak tea. Forcing a child to drink when he is ill is not worth it, but moisturizing the body will help him recover faster.

• Support and participation in the process – care and attention are very important for a child who has difficulty coping with pain and discomfort. Help him relax, mentally go beyond his body, offer medicines, tell interesting stories or play calm music.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions. If the child has persistent nausea and vomiting, seek medical attention. It is important to be attentive to your own feelings and report any changes in the child’s health. Illnesses that cause severe nausea and vomiting may require medical attention.

Nausea and Vomiting Hygiene Practices

When a child suffers from nausea and vomiting, it is very important to maintain good hygiene to prevent the spread of infection. Naturally, this can be a difficult task, especially if the child cannot control their physical reactions. Here are some rules that parents should follow to prevent the spread of the disease:

• The child should be kept in one place, preferably in a separate room, to prevent contact with other people.
• Make sure that there is enough fresh air in the room where the child is.
• Clean up the vomit as soon as possible, using gloves and a mask to protect yourself from infection.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after every time your child vomits.
• Make sure your child is drinking enough water to stay hydrated.
• Use disposable towels and wipes to prevent the spread of infection.
• If ​​the child suffers from nausea and vomiting due to food poisoning, food and drink should be avoided for several hours until the vomiting stops.

Following these hygiene rules will help prevent the spread of infection and ensure your child recovers quickly.

What to give a child to drink and eat with nausea and vomiting

When a child feels unwell and starts to vomit, the first question that arises in parents is what to give him to drink and eat. It is important to remember that with nausea and vomiting, it is usually necessary to reduce food and fluid intake so as not to overload the stomach and provoke a new bout of vomiting.

If the child wants to eat, light foods should be given, preferably from the “protein” category. It can be skinless chicken or turkey, fish, eggs, cottage cheese, white rice or pasta. It is better to postpone heavy, fatty, overly spicy and sweet foods for a while.

If vomiting does not stop for more than an hour, the child does not drink well, does not pay attention to toys, a doctor should be called. Some cases of nausea and vomiting can signal an illness, so qualified medical attention is needed in this case.

Important to remember:

• Give water little by little so as not to cause a new bout of vomiting.
• It is better to give protein foods that are easy to digest.
• Some cases of nausea and vomiting may require medical attention.

Preventive measures to prevent nausea and vomiting in children

1. Healthy daily routine. Give your child adequate rest, adequate sleep and a regular diet. Fatigue and lack of sleep can cause nausea and vomiting.

2. Eating. Check if the child suffers from food allergies, eliminate foods from the diet that can cause an allergic reaction. Also determine which foods can cause nausea and vomiting in your child and limit their consumption.

3. Hand hygiene. Educate your child on hand hygiene to prevent infections and the transmission of infectious diseases. Wash and disinfect toys and surfaces that your child frequently touches regularly.

4. Avoid stress. Help your child deal with stress that can cause nausea and vomiting. Support him in difficult moments, increasing the number of positive emotions in life.

5. Regular physical activity will help keep children healthy and prevent certain diseases that can cause nausea and vomiting.

6. First aid. Teach your child about first aid. If the child begins to feel unwell, he will be able to call for help in time and prevent the development of a serious illness.

7. Regular medical check-ups. Get regular health checks to detect and prevent illnesses that can cause vomiting and nausea in your child.

Relationship between stress and digestive disorders in children

Stress is one of the most common factors causing digestive disorders in children. When stressed, a child’s body releases more adrenaline and other hormones, which can affect the functioning of the stomach and intestines.

It is important to understand that indigestion in children can be associated not only with stress, but also with other factors, such as infectious diseases or dietary disorders. Therefore, if a child has problems with digestion, it is necessary to consult a doctor to identify the cause and prescribe treatment.

• What can be done to reduce the impact of stress on a child’s digestive system?
• Create a calm and comfortable environment in the home where the child will feel safe.
• Help your child establish a proper daily routine and diet.
• Pay attention to a healthy and balanced diet.
• Spending time with your child in nature, doing sports or yoga.

What drugs will help get rid of nausea and vomiting

Metoclopramide is a drug that improves the peristalsis of the digestive system and reduces nausea and vomiting. However, it can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness and depression, so you should consult your doctor before using it.

Cerucal is a medicine that also improves digestion and prevents nausea and vomiting in gastrointestinal disorders. However, the use of this drug can cause allergic reactions, changes in blood pressure and heart rhythm disturbances, so you should use it only as directed by your doctor.

Regidron is a remedy for restoring water and electrolyte balance in the body in case of vomiting and diarrhea. It contains a set of minerals and salts necessary to maintain the normal functioning of the body. Regidron should be taken in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations to avoid overdoses and complications.

• Omeprazole – the drug helps to eliminate heartburn and other symptoms corresponding to the reactivity of the gastrointestinal tract. A substance from the group of proton pump inhibitors can also be used to treat other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, namely for ulcerative lesions and gastritis.
• No-shpa is a drug that perfectly copes with the extreme depth of sensitivity of the intestines and stomach. No-shpa relieves spasms that may be associated with vomiting and nausea. However, its use is prohibited in case of hypersensitivity to fullness in the herbal complex.
• Ranitidine is an anti-inflammatory drug that prevents the appearance of protective mucous preparations in the GI wall. Well relieves symptoms associated with the protective barrier of the gastric mucosa.

Features of the treatment of nausea and vomiting in children of different ages

Young children (up to 3 years)

In young children, the most common cause of nausea and vomiting are infections of the gastrointestinal tract. Treatment consists of regular hydration, prevention of dehydration, and nutrition. Babies under 6 months are offered formula milk or mother’s milk, while older ones are suitable for easily digestible foods (for example, cereals, applesauce, broths). The physician decides on the administration of drugs.

Older children (3-12 years)

Nausea and vomiting are more common at this age after eating certain foods or when traveling in a car. Activated charcoal can be used to quickly remove toxins from the stomach. To prevent dehydration, you should regularly give your child water and electrolytes, and focus on light meals in nutrition. If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, a doctor should be consulted.

Adolescents (over 12 years old)

In adolescents, nausea and vomiting can accompany stress, eating disorders, and even alcohol intoxication. To calm the stomach and relieve symptoms, you can use medications that improve digestion (for example, Mezim). It is also important to determine the cause of the symptoms and see a doctor if they persist for more than 24 hours or appear regularly.

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Q&A:

What can be done to prevent nausea and vomiting in a child?

To prevent nausea and vomiting in a child, it is necessary to monitor his nutrition. Do not give him too fatty and heavy food, especially at bedtime. Also try to avoid foods that can cause allergic reactions. Also, keep your hands and food that your child consumes clean.

What should I do if my child has nausea and vomiting while driving?

If a child develops nausea and vomiting while riding in a car, it is worth stopping and letting him walk around and recover. If you can’t stop, you should give him small candies or chewing gum to relieve nausea. Refreshing rubbing of the forehead and neck with water or mint infusion will also help.

Why can a child get nausea and vomiting after eating dairy products?

The child may experience nausea and vomiting after eating dairy products due to lactose intolerance. Lactose is a milk sugar that is broken down in the intestines into glucose and galactose. But this requires the enzyme lactase, which performs this function. Some children may not have enough lactase in their intestines, which prevents the lactose from being broken down and can cause nausea and vomiting.

What should be done if a child develops nausea and vomiting due to a cold?

If a child has nausea and vomiting due to a cold, keep him or her completely calm and drink more water to avoid dehydration. It is advisable to give the child warm water, tea or broth. If vomiting does not stop and a fever develops, a doctor should be called.

How can nausea and vomiting in a child be cured if it is caused by digestive disorders?

If nausea and vomiting are caused by digestive disorders, the child’s diet should be regulated. Give him light, plant foods, vegetables and fruits. It is also necessary to make sure that the child chews food slowly, and does not swallow it whole.