A stomach virus can make your child miserable, and for good reason. Children with stomach viruses often throw up their food, have diarrhea, and complain of strong stomach cramps. If you treat your child's stomach virus correctly, however, you will increase the likelihood of it going away as quickly as possible.
Hydration
Give your child an oral rehydration solution as soon as the diarrhea or vomiting starts. It is important to keep your child hydrated. Do not substitute plain water or other liquids for the rehydration solution, as they do not have the correct proportion of water, salt and sugar. If your child is weak or still vomiting, try giving the solution by spoonful rather than with a cup. If your child is having difficulty keeping anything down, supplement the solution with ice chips. If applicable, continue breastfeeding or bottle feeding your baby as usual.
Foods
If your child can keep down foods and is hungry, give bland foods. Good examples are instant oatmeal, pasta, rice, potatoes, crackers, and soup. If your child is able to eat more complex foods, move on to meat, yogurt, fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods with a lot of added sugar, as well as fried or spicy foods.
Rest
Make sure that your child is getting plenty of rest. Even after the vomiting and diarrhea stops, let your child's body be your guide. If your child is feeling fine, allow light activity. Once the vomiting and diarrhea are no longer issues, wait at least 24 hours before allowing your child to resume a normal routine.
Temperature
Take your child's temperature upon awakening, before bedtime, and at least every four hours in between. Stay alert to signs of a high temperature, such as red cheeks, a warm forehead, or severe exhaustion.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If the vomiting or diarrhea lasts for more than 24 hours, call your doctor to touch base. If your child's temperature is very high, call your doctor as well. Consider bringing your child to the emergency room in any of the following situations: your child's symptoms get much worse, blood appears in the diarrhea or vomit, the child exhibits signs of dehydration, the child stops urinating, or the child's temperature continues to rise.
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