The official medical term is Gastroenteritis, according to Medicinenet.com. My son is just now getting over a bad case of this that he caught at pre-school. It lasted about a week, which is the longest he's ever had these symptoms. Of course you get the lovely response from the doctor, "Well unfortunately it's just viral and it has to run its course!"
Gastroenteritis occurs often in infants and young children and is usually caused by a viral, less often, a bacterial bowel infection. If prolonged, it can lead to dehydration. My son only had the vomiting for a day, but the diarrhea lasted seven days. My doctor gave me a sheet with a recommended diet. If vomiting with or without diarrhea:
- Nothing by mouth for at least one hour after vomiting.
- No solid foods for at least 8 hours after vomiting.
- Start clear liquids with oral re-hydration, such as Pedialyte or Gerber electrolyte re-hydration.
- Give small amounts, 1-2 tsp every 10-15 minutes.
- Double the amount every hour they are able to keep liquid down.
- If vomiting reoccurs, wait one hour and start again.
- If no vomiting for 8 hours, child can advance to normal diet.
For infants on formula only:
- Start with 1/2 strength (1 part water to 1 part full strength formula) giving 1 0r 2 oz. less per feeding than usual.
- If tolerated after two feedings, resume normal feeding schedule.
For older children without vomiting, start the BRAT diet:
- Banana
- Rice cereal or oatmeal made with water
- Apple, fresh or applesauce
- Tea or clear liquids
You can also try toast, saltine crackers, pretzels, jello, baked potato, and dry cereal.
The biggest worry is dehydration and signs of that are reduced urine, dry eyes, small amount of saliva or tears, dry lips, and lethargic. Good luck!
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