Vomiting can be a pretty traumatic event, even for adults. Kids may find vomiting especially upsetting, making you anxious to help them feel better as quickly as possible. The most frequent cause of vomiting in most children is the stomach flu, a viral infection that they usually fight off on their own without medical treatment. By understanding how to settle an upset stomach and stop vomiting in your kids, you can help them feel better and reduce the risk of additional health complications.
Step 1
Encourage your child to take small amounts of clear fluids to avoid irritating his stomach. Flavored ice pops, ice chips or small sips of ice-cold water may help relieve his nausea. Avoid milk or warm beverages if he is still vomiting periodically. Start over with smaller amounts if the liquids make him vomit again.
Step 2
Introduce mild foods if your child has been able to keep down liquids for 8 hours. Small pieces of bread, toast, plain crackers, rice or broth can help settle her upset stomach without inducing more vomiting. Have your child rest after eating with her head slightly elevated to reduce additional nausea. Gradually introduce more solid food until she feels able to eat normally again.
Step 3
Consult a physician if vomiting persists for more than 24 hours and is accompanied by a fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Take your child to the emergency room immediately if you think he may have ingested poison, has severe stomach pain or has blood in his vomit, which looks like coffee grounds.
Tips and Warnings
- Warm foods may induce nausea from the smell. Introduce warm foods, such as broth, after nausea has subsided.
- Watch for the symptoms of dehydration in your child, such as dry lips, a sticky, dry mouth, sunken eyes and rapid breathing. Get immediate medical attention for your child if he shows any symptoms of dehydration. Never ignore vomiting if it occurs after your child suffers a head injury, as this could indicate a concussion. Take your child to the emergency room immediately if you think he may have a concussion. Symptoms include neck stiffness, a severe headache, lethargy and confusion.
Things You'll Need
- Flavored ice pop
- Bread, plain crackers or rice
