Nausea and vomiting

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Emesis; Vomiting; Stomach upset; Upset stomach

It is important to stay hydrated. Try frequent, small amounts of clear liquids, such as electrolyte solutions. Other clear liquids -- such as water, ginger ale, or fruit juices -- also work unless the vomiting is severe or it is a baby who is vomiting.

For breast-fed babies, breast milk is usually best. Formula-fed babies usually need clear liquids.

Don't drink too much at one time. Stretching the stomach can make nausea and vomiting worse. Avoid solid foods until there has been no vomiting for six hours, and then work slowly back to a normal diet.

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An over-the-counter bismuth stomach remedy like Pepto-Bismol is effective for upset stomach, nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea. Because it contains aspirin-like salicylates, it should NOT be used in children or teenagers who might have (or recently had) chickenpox or the flu.

Most vomiting comes from mild viral or food-related illnesses. Nevertheless, if you suspect the vomiting is from something serious, the person may need to be seen immediately by a medical professional.

If you have morning sickness during pregnancy, ask your doctor about the many possible treatments.

The following may help treat motion sickness:

• Lying down
• Over-the-counter antihistamines (such as Dramamine)
• Scopolamine prescription skin patches (such as Transderm Scop) are useful for extended trips, such as an ocean voyage. Place the patch 4 - 12 hours before setting sail. Scopolamine is effective but may produce dry mouth, blurred vision, and some drowsiness. Scopolamine is for adults only. It should NOT be given to children.

Call 911 or go to an emergency room if you think vomiting is from poisoning or a child has taken aspirin.

Call a health care provider if the person has:

• Been vomiting for longer than 24 hours
• Blood or bile in the vomit
• Severe abdominal pain
• Headache and stiff neck
• Signs of dehydration

Signs of dehydration include:

• Increased thirst
• Infrequent urination or dark yellow urine
• Dry mouth
• Eyes that appear sunken
• Crying without tears
• Loss of normal skin elasticity (if you touch or squeeze the skin, it doesn't bounce back the way it usually does)