Vomiting / Throwing Up

Vomiting, or throwing up, is the forceful exit of what is in the stomach by way of the mouth. Infants often spit up, but in a gentle way; this is different from vomiting/throwing up. The most common cause of vomiting/throwing up is the stomach flu, a viral illness. You can usually care for your child by changing his/her diet and letting the symptoms run their course. Your child does not usually require medication to treat the stomach flu. If you can keep your child drinking small amounts frequently, you should not need to see your nurse/doctor. This is especially true if the child looks well between episodes of vomiting/throwing up.

If vomiting has occurred, please answer the following questions for advice.

Are any of the following true regarding your child?

Is your child less than 6 months old?
Does your child have a fever above 39.5 C (Rectal) or 39 C (Oral)?
Do you suspect poisoning?
Does your child have severe stomach pain?
Is your child severely ill between vomitting/throwing up episodes?
Do you suspect a head injury?
Is the child diabetic?
Could the child be pregnant?
Is there evidence of dehydration? (See below)

Advice: How To Tell If Your Child Is Dehydrated

Your child may be dehydrated if:

• There are fewer than 4 wet diapers per day or the child has not urinated during the last 8 hours.
• There are no tears when your child cries.
• Your childs mouth is dry or the eyes are sunken.
• Your child is dizzy when he/she stands.
• Your child is very sleepy and weak.