Babies and young children may vomit occasionally, which usually lasts for 1 to 2 days and is not usually a cause for concern.

Signs to Watch For

If your child is vomiting and:

• develops sudden and severe stomach pain, irritability, or lethargy
• has a headache, stiff neck, and a rash
• might have ingested a harmful substance
• there’s blood in the vomit or it resembles coffee grounds
• the vomit is green or yellow-green
• has a stiff neck and sensitivity to light

When to Seek Medical Help

• repeatedly vomits and cannot keep fluids down
• shows signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth or decreased urine output
• the vomit is green or contains blood
• has been vomiting for more than a day or two
• displays signs of infection like fever and irritability
• stops feeding while ill
• is a baby and has vomited more than 3 times in 24 hours

If your doctor’s office is closed, call 111.

Managing Vomiting at Home

In most cases, you can safely care for your child at home. Ensure they remain hydrated by drinking fluids to prevent dehydration.

If a baby is vomiting, continue breastfeeding or providing milk. Additional fluids may be necessary if they are dehydrated.

Children who vomit should continue to drink small amounts of clear liquids, such as water or broth. Avoid fruit juice and carbonated beverages until they feel better. If not dehydrated, solid foods can be reintroduced as usual.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist if concerned about dehydration. They may recommend an oral rehydration solution. Contact your doctor’s office if your child cannot keep down the solution.

Remain at home for at least 48 hours after the last vomiting or diarrhea episode to prevent spreading infection.

As the day winds down and household chores are complete, you sit back to enjoy your favorite show when your youngest child walks in and says, “My stomach hurts!” This scenario is familiar to many parents and caregivers. Witnessing your child clutching their stomach in discomfort can be distressing. But fear not, Pepto Kids is here to help.

If your child is experiencing occasional discomfort in their stomach, consider giving them Pepto Kids Gummies as a supplement. These gummies are specially formulated for children and can help alleviate occasional stomach discomfort, acid indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.*

Main ingredient in these gummies is calcium phosphate. Children aged 4-5 can chew 1 gummy, up to two times a day as needed. Children aged 6 and above can chew 2 gummies, up to two times a day as needed. Convenient for use on-the-go and available in bubble gum flavor.

If you have any questions or concerns about the right product for your child’s upset stomach, consult their pediatrician.

Here are Some Key Points to Remember

• Normal infant behavior after eating differs from vomiting.
• Viral gastroenteritis is a common cause of vomiting in children.
• Excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration in children.
• Vomiting is a common reason to seek medical advice for your child.
• Offer small amounts of oral rehydration solution or water to maintain your child’s hydration.
• If your child shows signs of severe dehydration, such as sunken eyes, lack of tears when crying, dry mouth, or lethargy, seek medical attention immediately.
• Avoid giving your child solid foods immediately after vomiting, as it may trigger more vomiting. Stick to clear liquids initially.

• Other possible reasons for vomiting in children include motion sickness, appendicitis, meningitis, diabetic ketoacidosis, and severe allergic reactions.
• Vomiting can also be a symptom of conditions such as intussusception, pyloric stenosis, and increased intracranial pressure.

Remember to consult a doctor if your child has been vomiting for an extended period or displays concerning symptoms. It is important to seek medical attention for infants under 6 months old and those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes. Keep a close eye on signs of dehydration in children, as severe cases can be life-threatening. Seek help if the child’s condition does not improve, and follow guidance on caring for a child with vomiting due to gastroenteritis. Remember, oral rehydration solution can help replenish lost minerals and salts, and hospitalization may be required for rehydration in severe cases.
For further information and support, consider exploring resources from reputable sources such as Kids’ health information from The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Fact sheets from The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Nip allergies in the Bub for information on food allergy symptoms, healthdirect for guidance on caring for your child, and Pregnancy, Birth and Baby for a list of resources for information and advice. As always, prioritize your child’s health and well-being by seeking professional medical advice when needed.

Search our site for

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Gastroenteritis factsheet | The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network

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Dehydration & fluid loss: children & teens | Raising Children Network

Dehydration may arise due to various factors like diarrhea, vomiting, inadequate fluid intake, or high levels of activity in children. Combat dehydration by offering extra fluids.

Find out more on the website of raisingchildren.net.au

Gastroenteritis or gastro: kids & teens | Raising Children Network

Children commonly suffer from gastroenteritis, leading to diarrhea and occasional vomiting. Ensure your child remains well-hydrated.

Learn more on raisingchildren.net.au website

Gastroenteritis | Children’s Health Queensland

Discover how to care for your child during gastroenteritis episodes and when to seek professional help.

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Diarrhoea in children and teenagers | Raising Children Network

Diarrhea is a frequent issue in children, characterized by loose stools and increased frequency. Make sure your child consumes sufficient fluids to recover from diarrhea.

Read more on raisingchildren.net.au website

Vomiting in children

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Access more information on the Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Vomiting in children and teenagers | Raising Children Network

Children often experience vomiting, with dehydration being a significant risk. Ensure your child gets enough fluids. Consult your general practitioner if you have concerns.

For further details, visit raisingchildren.net.au website

Diarrhoea in babies and children

Diarrhea is prevalent in infants and children. Learn about the symptoms of diarrhea and how to prevent dehydration in your child.

Visit the Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website to learn more

Norovirus | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government

Noroviruses constitute a group of viruses that can trigger gastroenteritis, with symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, and vomiting.

Further details available on the Queensland Health website

Diarrhoea – Better Health Channel

Acute diarrhea in babies and young children can be a life-threatening condition.

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Ketogenic diets for drug-resistant epilepsy | Cochrane

Experts’ findings indicate that Ketogenic Diets (KDs) may be effective in treating drug-resistant epilepsy in children, though uncertainties exist regarding their use in adults.

Access the full study on the Cochrane Australia website

Food Protein Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES) – Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)

Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES)

For more information, check out the ASCIA – Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy website

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Failure to thrive (FTT), also known as poor growth or faltering growth, describes inadequate weight gain in children under two years old compared to their peers. To understand more, visit the Ausmed Education website

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What is Dengue? | Ausmed

Dengue fever, a disease similar to flu, is transmitted by mosquitoes like the Dengue mosquito (Aedes aegypti) or the Asian Tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). Uncover more details on the Ausmed Education website

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Food poisoning affects millions of Australians annually, leading to hospitalizations and fatalities. Many cases of food poisoning can be prevented. Get informed through the Ausmed Education website

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Related pages

• Possible Reasons for Vomiting
• Vomiting
• How to manage vomiting at home
• Preventing dehydration from vomiting

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