Suggest Treatment For Severe Vomiting And Diarrhea

Posted on Mon, 17 Apr 2017

Question: Hi, I have my 5 year old great-nephew staying with me. His parents are out of the country. Last night he started vomiting around 1:00 am, he vomited about every hour until about 6:00, then went to sleep until about 9:00 woke up with diarrhea twice. Got him to drink water. I laid with him and watched a movie then he fell asleep about 12:30 and has been sleeping and stiring now and then but I cannot get him to drink. I am no longer familiar with children's illness but am really concerned he won't drink. Is it better to let him sleep or force him to wake up and drink?

Answered by Dr. Eric Goldstein (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Stomach Virus

Detailed Answer:
Hello. I just read through your question.
The symptoms conservative are consistent with a stomach virus. I agree that it this important that he get fluids. However, if he is sleeping, it is always better to key him sleep rather than wake him to drink. When he wakes up, you can offer him 1-2 teaspoons every 10-15 minutes. This will keep him well hydrated until the illness resolves.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T