Diarrhoea & Vomiting

Diarrhoea and vomiting often appear together, but may appear separately. Most times, although you feel terrible, there is little that a doctor can do for you, other than give advice similar to that below. For most intents and purposes the approach to the treatment is similar: 

DO

• Only drink clear fluids e.g. purpose made electrolyte solutions or “pop” such as lemonade

• Start by just taking sips of fluids, and when the sickness subsides build up the quantity

• You may take anti-diarrhoea medication which can help the symptoms, but they do not cure you any quicker (these can be purchased at any Pharmacy)  

DO NOT

• Do not eat until at least 24 hours after the last sickness or diarrhoea has subsided
• Do not drink milks, or drinks containing particles, as these take more digestion and irritate the bowel  

IMPORTANT

 See a Doctor if you have Diarrhoea when:

• Bowel motions contain blood
• You are losing weight
• It is severe with dehydration
• It persists longer than 2-3 days- earlier for the elderly and the very young (under 2 years of age)
• You have severe abdominal pain or a high fever (greater than 38ºC)