Diarrhoea & Vomiting in Babies

Acute diarrhoea and vomiting symptoms are commonly attributed to infectious causes, such as food poisoning, leading to symptoms ranging from mild stomach upset to severe watery diarrhoea for several days. Commonly painful stomach cramps will occur which may ease after each passing. Typically, diarrhoea will last for 3-5 days and often continues for a few days after vomiting subsides. For most, the symptoms will be relatively mild and will improve after a few days without treatment other than ensuring plenty of fluids are taken onboard. 

You should however see the doctor if your child has been:

• Recently abroad
• In contact with someone with similar symptoms
• Taking antibiotics
• Admitted to hospital.

It is important to ensure the child drinks plenty of fluid and to get advice about using rehydration sachets if the diarrhoea persists.

Medical advice should be sought if your child:

• is under 6 months
• has underlying medical conditions
• has a high temperature
• appears drowsy or confused
• is unable to keep fluids down
• has blood in diarrhoea or vomit
• has severe stomach pain