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Last Updated on
5/9/13

Helpful Hints for Dealing with Nausea and/or Diarrhea

Viruses are the usual cause of vomiting and diarrhea. These illnesses are usually self-limiting, which means the symptoms will resolve on their own in a few days. Occasionally, these viruses may also cause headaches, body aches, and fever.

For nausea and vomiting

Don't try to eat or drink anything while you are vomiting frequently.
When your stomach begins to settle, try SIPS of clear liquids only.
-Examples of clear liquids include: ice water, soft drinks, tea, Kool-Aid, ice popsicles, sports drinks, Jell-O. No alcoholic beverages.
If you are doing well with sips, try to start drinking larger amounts frequently. It is important to try to replace the fluids you have lost through vomiting and/or diarrhea.
When you are tolerating fluids well and have not had any vomiting for at last 8 hours, you can try the BRAT diet.
-The BRAT diet consists of: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. No butter or jelly, please. You can also try bagels, saltine crackers, and baked potatoes. No cream soups, meats, vegetables, and/or salads.
When you are doing well on the BRAT diet for at least 24 hours, you can gradually begin eating a regular diet. You should avoid any dairy products and friend foods for another day or two.
You may try over-the-counter medications such as Dramamine or Bonine (Meclizine) every 6-8 hours, as needed for nausea. Tylenol (acetaminophen) is a good choice for fever or aches because it is gentle on the stomach.

For Diarrhea

Follow the clear liquids diet as long as you are having frequent watery stools. Beware sometimes sugar and caffeine may may diarrhea worse.
As stools begin occuring less frequently, you can try the BRAT diet.
When stools become soft and formed, you can gradually return to a regular diet. You should avoid dairy products and high roughage foods, such as bran, whole grains, and salads for a few more days.
You may try over-the-counter medications, such as Imodium or Kaopectate. Be sure to follow the instructions on the box carefully.

SEEK MEDICAL HELP IF:

Symptoms do not improve in 24-48 hours.
Increasing weakness, dizziness, or passing out.
Unable to tolerate sips of fluids for over 12 hours.
Blood in the vomit or stool.
Fever of 101 degrees Farenheit or above for more than 24 hours.
Urine becomes dark or no urination for 12 hours or longer.
If you have diabetes or other medical condition(s) that require daily medications.