Care for Vomiting, Diarrhea and Dehydration

If you’re experiencing vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration, don’t panic. These symptoms are common and usually manageable without medical intervention. Vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration often occur together, and home care is typically the first line of treatment.

Caring for Vomiting, Diarrhea and Dehydration at Home

Here are some tips for caring for yourself at home:

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, sports drinks or oral rehydration solutions. Aim for at least eight to 10 glasses of fluids per day.
• Give your body time to recover by getting plenty of rest. Avoid strenuous activity until you feel better.
• Eat bland foods. Avoid spicy, greasy or fatty foods, as they can worsen your symptoms.
• Stick to the BRAT diet (i.e., bananas, rice, applesauce, toast). These foods are gentle on the stomach and can help settle an upset stomach. BRAT is also recommended for diarrhea.
• Avoid solid foods until vomiting subsides.
• Take small, frequent sips of fluids rather than large gulps. This can help prevent further vomiting.
• If you can’t keep down liquids, try sucking on ice chips or popsicles. This can help replace lost fluids without triggering more vomiting.
• Take over-the-counter medications to help control diarrhea and vomiting.
• If you’re feeling weak or dizzy, lie down and raise your feet slightly. This can help restore blood flow to your brain and reduce the risk of fainting.

Time to Call Your Doctor

Sometimes what you do at home just isn’t enough. That’s when it’s time to call your doctor or head to an urgent care center.

• If your symptoms are accompanied by a high fever (higher than 102 F), bloody vomit or stools, or severe abdominal pain
• If you’re unable to keep down fluids or if your symptoms last for more than 24 hours
• In general, if you feel like your symptoms are getting worse or you’re just not feeling better

Time to Go to the ED for Vomiting, Diarrhea and Dehydration

If you experience any of the following, it’s time to head to the emergency department.

• Severe dehydration with dry mouth, dizziness or extreme thirst
• High fever with a stiff neck, confusion or disorientation
• Severe abdominal pain or vomiting that is accompanied by a rigid or bloated abdomen, which could indicate a possible blockage or rupture
• Signs of infection, including chills, a rapid heart rate or rapid breathing

In all of these cases, it’s better to err on the side of caution and seek emergency care.

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