Kapaa Pediatrics, LLC
Diarrhea and Vomiting
Diarrhea and vomiting are caused by germs (usually viruses or bacteria) infecting the intestines.
People call this “stomach flu” when it is caused by a virus (such a rotavirus and norovirus). Diarrhea can
also be caused by parasites, antibiotics, or food poisoning. Medicine can be used to stop or help the
vomiting, but there is no recommend medicine for diarrhea in children.
Tips for Diarrhea:
1. Diaper rash is one of the biggest problems that occurs. As soon as diarrhea starts you should be
putting thick topical barrier cream around the anus to prevent rash. Instead of using wipes or
toilet paper that can cause irritation, consider rinsing your child's bottom in the tub with warm
water.
2. If the diarrhea last longer than 3-4 days, and your child is >1 year old, try to remove ALL dairy
products out of their diet. Keep them dairy free for at least 3-5 days to let the intestine heal.
3. Major dietary changes are usually not needed, but fatty, spicy, and sugary foods should be
limited.
4. Pedialyte or watered down juice/sports drinks (50:50 ratio of water:juice) are ideal to help keep
your child hydrated. Pure juice or soda have too much sugar and can make diarrhea worse.
5. Do not give plain water by itself if your child is not eating, since water does not have any
electrolytes such as salt and sugar.
Tips for Vomiting:
1. The key is to give small amounts frequently. Since the stomach is upset, it will vomit when it
stretches and fills up. Prevent this by giving only 0.5-1 ounces every 10-15 minutes for babies,
or 1-3 ounces every 10-15 minutes in child older than 1 year.
2. Zofran (Ondansetron) is a prescription medication to help settle the stomach and decrease
vomiting.
When should you contact your doctor?
1. Fever that does not go away after 1-3 days.
2. Red blood or black blood in the diarrhea.
3. Lots of vomiting or if vomit is bloody, green, or looks like chocolate or coffee.
4. The belly looks very full or big.
5. The belly is hard and consistently painful.
Symptoms of dehydration: Inside of the mouth looks sticky, urinating less, weakness, tiredness, pale
color, too tired to feed and drink.
Kapa’a Pediatrics, LLC ● 4-1461 Kuhio Hwy, Kapa’a HI 96746 ● Ph (808) 634-8011 ● Fax (808) 822-0938