Vomiting and diarrhea are among the most common childhood illnesses, usually caused by viral infections that resolve on their own within a few days. The main concern during these episodes is preventing dehydration. These symptoms often occur alongside fever as part of the same illness — if fever is also present, see our guide on fever in children for when it needs medical attention.
Supporting your child through an episode
- Offer small, frequent sips of fluid rather than large amounts at once
- Oral rehydration solution can be useful, especially with frequent diarrhea or vomiting
- Continue age-appropriate feeding as tolerated once vomiting settles
- Avoid overly sugary drinks, which can sometimes worsen diarrhea
Recognizing dehydration
Watch for:
- Noticeably reduced urination
- Dry mouth or lips
- Lack of tears when crying
- Unusual sleepiness, irritability, or lack of energy
- Sunken eyes or, in infants, a sunken soft spot on the head
Any of these signs are a reason to seek prompt medical assessment rather than waiting.
When to seek a consultation
- Symptoms persist beyond 24–48 hours without improvement
- Your child is unable to keep any fluids down
- There is blood in vomit or stool
- Your child appears increasingly unwell, lethargic, or dehydrated
- The child is a young infant with these symptoms
An important note
This clinic does not provide emergency services. If your child shows signs of significant dehydration or is unable to tolerate any fluids, please seek immediate care at the nearest emergency department rather than waiting for a scheduled appointment.
For more on evaluating these symptoms, visit our Vomiting, Diarrhea and Digestive Concerns service page.