Vomiting and Diarrhoea and the Treatment - Diseases Treatment - Symptoms, Causes and Cure for Diseases on A to Z

Treatment of Vomiting

Simple vomiting from intestinal upsets can usually be arrested by the following steps:

Nothing by mouth for 3/2 hours after last vomiting spell.

Then start with one-half tablespoon of medium strength tea, ginger ale or a cola drink. Increase by a half table­spoon every 20 minutes until four tablespoons are reached. Then cereal, crackers, toast or apple sauce may be offered. Gradually increase the diet but only if the child desires it. Do not give undiluted milk or orange juice until the stomach is settled.

There are a number of medications which can be given by mouth, rectum or by injection which are very effective in arresting a vomiting attack. These are prescribed by the physician.

Treatment of Diarrhea

Most diarrhoeas treatment can be done with comparative ease if the cause is known. For instance, there are milk substitutes for infants who have a hypersensitivity to cow's milk; there are medications that will soothe an irritation of the gastrointestinal tract; there are other medications that kill intestinal bacteria; the diet can be arranged to temporarily eliminate laxative foods such as spinach, prunes and apricots. Often a simple diarrhea may be eliminated quickly by bringing the child's milk to a boil and letting it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes (at times boiled skim milk produces faster results). Gradually solids may be added. In many cases of diarrhea, paregoric may be given to slow down the rapid action of the intestines. The dosage depends on the age and weight of the child and should be used at the direction of the child's doctor. Diarrhea associated with ulcerative colitis, cystic fibrosis or celiac disease requires careful and specific medical care.