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Although
many things can cause vomiting and diarrhea, the reason is usually
not serious and the condition usually gets better quickly.
If
you continue having vomiting and diarrhea for more than a few days,
you should be checked for dehydration. This is very important, especially
in the very young and the elderly.
Treatment
- It is
best to try to drin even if you are vomiting. Use ice chips
or very small amounts (spoonfuls) of fluids every 10-15 minutes.
- Once the
vomiting slows down, you may try clear fluids like soft drinks
(without caffeine), soup and diluted juices. Clear fluids are
drinks that you can see through.
- Try to
return to a normal diet as you are getting better. It is not
necessary to stop milk or dairy products. Foods high in starch,
like noodles, bread, rice and potatoes, may be helpful.
- When you
are just having diarrhea, you do not have to change your regular
diet, but do continue to eat.
Medications
Gravol
suppositories and Kaopectate are quite safe in adults and may improve
the condition.
If
you continue to vomit and have diarrhea for longer than a few days,
the doctor may prescribe medications.
See
a Doctor If ...
- there is
no improvement after 2 days
- there is
blood in the vomit or diarrhea
- abdominal
pain develops that is constant and not cramping
- there are
signs of dehydration (such as no tears or moisture in the mouth,
or no urination for 8 hours)
- the person
appears sicker.
Wash
your hands with soap and water to prevent spreading the illness
to others.
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