The complete guide to child vomit
Here's everything you need to know about dealing with puke, from what causes kids to vomit to how to make clean-up a little less icky.
Barf. Upchuck. Kotch. Puke. Call it what you want, but as a parent, you will encounter child vomit – and, needless to say, it will not be pleasant. Even the most experienced parents can become completely frazzled when their child starts throwing up.
However, child vomit does occur. And when that happens, you might have some questions. Here are the answers:
What could make a child vomit?
The most common cause of vomiting is viral gastroenteritis, also known as “stomach flu.” This infection can last anywhere between a few days and a week. Other causes can include motion sickness, food poisoning, digestive issues, and some types of infections.
Do I need to be concerned about my child becoming dehydrated if they’ve been vomiting?
When a child vomits, the main concern is dehydration. Encourage your child to take small but frequent sips of water or very diluted juice. You could also provide an oral rehydration solution, such as Rehidrat®, which has the ideal balance of sugar and salts to maximise fluid absorption.
How about some ginger ale?
While some believe ginger ale relieves nausea, drinking too much sugary soda can aggravate stomach problems. Warm ginger tea, sweetened with honey, is a better option.
Can children eat after vomiting?
Ironically, it is quite common for a child to vomit the contents of their stomach and then request a snack five minutes later. Should you give in?
The advice on this one is reciprocal. Some doctors recommend waiting for a short while if your child is vomiting due to gastroenteritis before offering food. Other doctors advise offering small amounts of food if your child wants food immediately after vomiting.
What should my child eat?
Again, experts have differing opinions. Many people recommend the “BRAT” diet, which consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. However, newer research indicates sick children can eat the same foods they always do without consequences. It’s a good idea to avoid serving your child fried and greasy foods, dairy, and excess sugar. Consult your doctor for guidance.
My child is terrified of vomiting. What should I do?
Soothe your child, rub their back, acknowledge their feelings, and assure them that everything will be fine and that it will be over soon.
When can children return to school after vomiting?
This depends on what has caused your child’s vomiting. If it’s due to an infection, it’s best to consult with your child’s doctor.
If you suspect dehydration or if diarrhoea and vomiting are accompanied by pain or a fever of 38.5°C or higher, keep your child home from school. Return them once their symptoms have subsided, and they can tolerate liquids and solid food without becoming ill.
How do I get rid of vomit?
Cleaning up vomit from children is one of the most unpleasant aspects of parenting. Here are a few pointers to make it just a little bit better.
- Towels are your ally: When your child is sick, keep some on hand at all times. It’s much easier to throw a towel in the washing machine (after first dumping the chunks into the toilet – sorry!) than it is to scoop and wipe vomit off the floor or, even worse, the carpet.
- Store extra sheets and blankets in each child’s room, perhaps in the top drawer of his dresser or in their closet. This eliminates the need to search through the linen closet in the dark for a sheet that fits. Alternatively, double up on bedsheets so you can simply remove a layer in the middle of the night.
- Always keep a waterproof mattress cover on your child’s bed to prevent vomit from stinking up and staining the mattress.
- Gather the mattress cover, sheets, and blankets in the middle of the night and place them somewhere where the smell won’t bother anyone until the next day. Deal with it first thing in the morning.
- If you have a partner, one of you should look after your child while the other cleans up the mess.
- A small child who needs to throw up may perceive the toilet as being very far away. Keep a bucket near the bed and explain its purpose.
Is vomiting infectious?
It can be, depending on the cause of the vomiting. Viral gastroenteritis is highly contagious, and you’re especially vulnerable if you’re caring for a child or cleaning up after them. Wash your hands – and your child’s hands thoroughly.
