Sooner or later, most toddlers become ill with a stomach bug or virus that causes vomiting. These illnesses are generally harmless and last two to the days. Keep your child comfortable, encourage rest and offer clear liquids when the vomiting slows. Trust your intuition, though. If your child seems seriously ill, contact your child's pediatrician.
Frequency
Vomiting for two days is generally not considered serious if the vomiting is less than once every two to four hours. Toddlers may vomit every five to 30 minutes during the first eight hours of an illness, according to the website AskDrSears.com, but the vomiting should begin to decrease in frequency and eventually subside.
Causes
How long a toddler continues to vomit depends mostly on what is causing the illness. The stomach flu is the most common cause of vomiting and generally lasts between 12 and 72 hours. Stomach flu is usually accompanied by a high fever and stomach pain. Food poisoning generally lasts no more than 12 hours and no fever is present. Consult your pediatrician if the vomiting continues beyond 72 hours.
Treatment
Your goal in treating vomiting is to prevent dehydration by replacing lost fluids. Withhold all foods and liquids during the first stage of vomiting, when vomiting is frequent and severe. Once vomiting slows down, offer clear liquids, such as diluted sports drinks or pediatric beverages made for restoring electrolyte balance. Offer a few sips and then wait to ensure your child can keep it down. Once your toddler keeps the liquid down for a few hours, offer bland foods, such as saltines, rice, broth or applesauce. Watch your toddler for signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers, decreased activity or a dry mouth and lips. Contact your pediatrician if you see signs of dehydration.
Seek Treatment
Occasionally, vomiting may be a sign of a serious condition, such as an intestinal obstruction or kidney infection. Contact your pediatrician if your toddler continues to vomit frequently for more than eight hours or has a high fever. Seek immediate medical attention if your toddler is vomiting dark green bile, has intense pain or is clammy and sweaty.
References
- AskDrSears.com: Vomiting
- "Naturally Healthy Kids"; Dr. Jerry Rubin, et al.; 2006
- "Caring for Your Baby and Young Child"; American Academy of Pediatrics; 2009
