Various symptoms of illness, including fever, diarrhea and throwing up, put a young child at risk of dehydration. In many instances, dehydration is the primary concern, as fluids and electrolytes deplete via vomiting and other symptoms. Simple steps to keep your toddler hydrated after throwing up are essential to his well-being. More than six hours without urination, unusually dark or strong-smelling urine, dry mouth and lips, lethargy and tearless crying are common signs that your toddler is becoming or is already dehydrated. More serious signs, such as sunken eyes, cold or splotchy hands or feet, excessive sleepiness and disorientation, require medical attention.
Step 1
Keep your child from running around after throwing up, even though he may experience increased energy from feeling better. The activity can cause perspiration, and with it, further loss of fluids and electrolytes. It can also trigger another round of vomiting if his stomach isn't completely settled.
Step 2
Increase your toddler's fluid intake, especially by giving him water. Do not increase his daily juice consumption, though, as the extra sugar is unhealthy. Rather, dilute his favorite fruit juice with an equal amount of water to keep him drinking more and longer. Avoid sugary or carbonated beverages, including sports drinks. Also avoid acidic drinks, such as orange juice, as they can irritate the throat after vomiting.
Step 3
Confirm with your pediatrician that you can give your toddler an over-the-counter children's electrolyte liquid, otherwise known as an oral-rehydration solution. These are formulated to replace fluids, salt, potassium, sugar and other nutrients. Start with 1 to 2 tsp. every five to 10 minutes to see if your child keeps it down, and increase it gradually to the recommended amount.
Step 4
Reduce your toddler's high fever, if he has one, to prevent fluid loss through sweating. Remove most of his clothing and wrap him only in a light blanket if he gets chills. Give him an over-the-counter fever-reducing medication made for children his age that contains ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Check with your pediatrician first, though, and follow all package directions and warnings. Never give a child aspirin. Apply a cold compress to his forehead for five minutes every half hour.
Step 5
Feed your child a light, clear soup for a meal or two after he throws up to replenish fluids and salt while -- it is hoped -- not further aggravating his stomach.
Step 6
Freeze fruit juice or an electrolyte liquid in an ice-pop mold or ice-cube tray to encourage your toddler to take in more fluids and help keep him cool.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Fruit juice
- Electrolyte liquid
- Light blanket
- Children's fever reducer
- Cold compress
- Clear soup
- Ice-pop mold or ice-cube tray
