Known also as gastroenteritis, the stomach flu causes unpleasant side effects including vomiting, fever, chills, stomach pain, aches and diarrhea. These symptoms may last only a few hours or continue over several days. A child experiencing this form of stomach bug feels miserable but also faces other potential complications, such as dehydration. Caring for your sick child includes comforting her physically and emotionally in addition to monitoring her condition to prevent the more serious complications. Stomach flu can present differently from child to child, so don't hesitate to contact your child's healthcare provider if you feel it's warranted.
Step 1
Track the stomach flu symptoms your child experiences, including when they start and how long they last. If she needs medical attention, the health care provider will ask for these details. Tracking the symptoms also helps you determine their severity and whether or not the child needs to visit the doctor.
Step 2
Create a comfortable place for resting and recovering. Help him find a comfortable position that eases the stomach discomfort. Provide a trash can or bucket in case he feels the need to vomit.
Step 3
Accompany your child to the bathroom when she vomits. Soothe her and reassure her that she is safe. Vomiting is sometimes scary for children, so comfort from a parent or caregiver is reassuring.
Step 4
Offer small amounts of water or ice chips to keep your child hydrated. An electrolyte solution is also an option for children who have difficulty keeping down liquids. The minerals and salt in these solutions helps replace those lost through vomiting and diarrhea.
Step 5
Offer more liquids if your child is able to keep down the small amounts without vomiting. Increase the amounts slowly to avoid irritating the stomach.
Step 6
Watch for dehydration symptoms, including less frequent urination, sunken eyes, lack of tears, dry lips, sleepiness, fussiness and wrinkly skin.
Step 7
Feed your child small amounts of food when he feels ready. Avoid acidic or high-sugar foods, which can irritate the stomach further.
Step 8
Call your child's health care provider if vomiting does not subside after 48 hours. Other reasons to call the doctor include dehydration, blood in stools, fever above 103 degrees Fahrenheit, severe pain or symptoms that get worse instead of better.
