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Compliments of American Academy Of Family Physicians

Nausea and Vomiting in Infants and Children

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Parents often feel uncomfortable when their children are unable to eat or hold down food or fluids. Many mild illnesses may lead to a "sour stomach" or an inability to hold down food. Follow this chart for more information about these problems.

SYMPTOMS	DIAGNOSIS	SELF-CARE

1. Is your infant throwing up small amounts of formula after a feeding?	This is probably "SPITTING UP," a common occurrence for infants on formula. Less common is a LACTOSE INTOLERANCE or MILK ALLERGY.	The baby may be gulping air or may have taken too much formula, or the formula may be upsetting the child's stomach. Discuss this with your doctor at the next visit, sooner if it increases.

2. Does the infant forcefully vomit large amounts of formula or fluid and is the child under 10 weeks of age or appear to be dehydrated?	This type of vomiting may be from a blockage at the end of the stomach called PYLORIC STENOSIS.	The baby should be seen by your doctor right away to assess the problem. Pyloric stenosis may require surgery.

3. Does the child have diarrhea?	Vomiting and diarrhea may be from VIRAL GASTROENTERITIS or possibly from a formula problem.	Have the child checked by the doctor if there are more than a few episodes. Watch carefully for fever and make sure the child is drinking fluids.

4. Has your infant (age two years and under) been vomiting continuously for six to 12 hours? Has your child (age two and above) been vomiting continuously for 12 to 24 hours?	Your infant or child may be on the verge of DEHYDRATION.	Contact your doctor right away for instructions.

5. Does your infant have cranberry-colored diarrhea and uncontrollable crying, and continue to vomit all liquids?	Your child may have an OBSTRUCTION of the intestines.	Contact your doctor right away for instructions.

For more information, please consult your doctor. If you think the problem is serious, call right away.

This tool has been reviewed by doctors and is for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice. The information in this tool should not be relied upon to make decisions about your health. Always consult your family doctor with questions about your individual condition(s) and/or circumstances. Source: American Academy of Family Physicians. Family Health & Medical Guide. Dallas: Word Publishing; 1996.