Diarrhea and vomiting is a common condition in toddlers as well as adults and is not a disease but a symptom that could be indicating some illness. However, it can be quite harmful as severe conditions can lead to dehydration which results in excess amount of loss of essential nutrients and fluids from the body. A toddler can become dehydrated in barely 4 hours in case the symptoms are severe. In case of vomiting your child is constantly throwing up and diarrhea is a condition characterized by liquid or watery stools. The major cause for
diarrhea and vomiting in toddler is because of a viral, bacterial or infection due to parasites. Sometimes, vomiting can be a result of consumption of some toxic substance. At such times keeping your toddler hydrated is of utmost importance but you cannot do much until they stop throwing up. Do not give your toddler any medication unless it is prescribed by the doctor.
Once your stop has stopped vomiting, give him a spoonful of oral electrolyte solution every ten minutes as that is the best way to keep your child from getting dehydrated. If they are able to keep this down, then increase it to 2 teaspoons every five minutes. You can also give clear liquids such as water and broth but water does not contain all the nutrients that are needed by the body. For toddlers eating solid foods, you can start by giving them a bland diet in small amounts like rice, bananas, toast, potatoes, crackers or pears. If your child does well with these foods, you can introduce other foods in the next 48 hours. However, make sure you do not give them juices if suffering from diarrhea as it may worsen the condition. Do not let them have any dairy and milk products, food rich in fiber and fruits like peaches, plums, apricots and so on. Most children return to their normal diet about 3 days after the diarrhea stops. However, if your toddler suffers from severe dehydration or has thrown up more than once after a head injury you need to take the doctor’s appointment urgently.
Diarrhea and vomiting in pregnancy is common and occurs at any stage but is mostly seen in the initial stages. This could be morning sickness or otherwise can go in a day and generally there is nothing to worry about. However, if the condition persists for long, it is recommended you visit a doctor and not neglect the condition any further.
Submitted by P T on February 18, 2010 at 11:16
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