💧 #1 Priority: Hydration
Dehydration is the biggest concern. Focus on replacing fluids:
Best options:
- Pedialyte - Best choice, has right balance of electrolytes
- Oral rehydration solution (ORS)
- Breast milk or formula - Don't stop for babies
Give small amounts frequently:
- 1-2 teaspoons every 5 minutes
- Increase gradually as tolerated
- Use a syringe for small children
⚠️ Avoid: Juice, soda, sports drinks (too much sugar makes diarrhea worse)
🚨 Signs of Dehydration
Seek medical care if:
- No wet diaper for 6+ hours (or no urination for 8+ hours in older children)
- No tears when crying
- Dry mouth/lips
- Sunken eyes or fontanelle (soft spot)
- Very lethargic or difficult to wake
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Severe stomach pain
🍌 What to Feed
Once vomiting slows down (after 8-12 hours):
- Start with bland foods: crackers, toast, rice, bananas
- Avoid dairy for 24-48 hours (except breast milk/formula)
- Small portions, frequent meals
- Return to normal diet within 24-48 hours
💡 The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is no longer strictly recommended - just focus on bland, easily digestible foods.
💊 Medications
- Tylenol - OK for fever/discomfort if child can keep it down
- Zofran (ondansetron) - Prescription anti-nausea, ask your doctor
- Probiotics - May help shorten duration
⚠️ Avoid: Anti-diarrhea medications (Imodium) for children - can make things worse.
🧮 Calculate Tylenol or Zofran Dose
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