Marquette University
Medical Clinic
414-288-7184
545 N. 15th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53233
Vomiting & Diarrhea
Marquette University Medical Clinic
Patient Information
Source: UpToDate www.uptodate.com 2010
Treatment begins with allowing the stomach and intestines to rest. After vomiting subsides,
try a few sips of water or ice chips. If this tolerated, then progress to frequent small amounts
(total of 2-3 liters per day) of clear liquid which include:
 Gatorade/Kool-aid
 Non-caffeine sodas/non-caffeine teas
 Popsicles
 Jell-O
**Avoid caffeine & alcohol
 Clear broth
 Dilute fruit juices (avoid citrus)
After Symptoms subside with 12-24 hours of clear liquids, solids can be gradually added to
the clear liquids. Follow a bland diet for 24-48 hours: toast, crackers, rice, applesauce,
bananas, boiled potatoes, backed or broiled skinless poultry or fish.
Foods
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to avoid while recovering:
Dairy Products (especially milk, cheese, ice cream)
Spicy foods
Greasy foods
High fiber foods (whole grains, fruit with skins, raw vegetables
You may gradually resume your normal diet after 24-48 hours of eating bland solids if our
symptoms are improving. It may take several more days before normal bowel movements
return.
Medications:
In general, medications are not necessary, but the following may be used to temporally
relieve intolerable symptoms:
 Acetaminophen 500mg: 1-2 every 4-6 hours as needed for fever, headaches, body
aches. Maximum of 4 grams in 24 hours. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other similar
meds that can irritate the stomach.
 Imodium AD: 2 caps after 1st diarrhea stool, then 1 cap as needed for continuing
diarrhea. Do not exceed 4 caps in a 24 hour period. Do not use anti-diarrhea
medication if fever is greater than 101 degrees or if blood is present in stool.
Seek
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Medical Help if:
Persistent abdominal pain, unrelieved by vomiting g or passing a bowel movement.
Fever over 101 degrees, not relieved with Tylenol.
Vomiting or diarrhea for more than 24 hours without improvement.
Blood in the emesis or stools.
How to prevent transmission to others:
 Wash hands well with soap and water after using the bathroom and before eating or
handling food.
 Do not share eating or drinking utensils.