Dr Raley's Blog

Fever/Vomiting/Diarrhea

Judging from the number of calls I have had-this must be affecting quite a few families.  Hopefully this is just a 24 hour bug, however I have had two kids in the hospital.  Remember that it is hard to get dehydrated with vomiting alone, unless yur child also has diarrhea.  If just vomiting, wait about 1-2 hours after the last episode, then begin about 1/2 ounce every 15 minutes, advance as tolerates.  Under one year-Pedialyte, over 1 year, pedialyte or gatorade.

If they are unable to take tylenol or motrin for fever-get OTC Feverall suppository (acetaminophen-which is Tylenol).  They come in 3 different doses, 80mg, 120mg, 325 mg.  The dose is 7mg per pound, every 4-6 hours.  You can cut up the 325mg if needed. 

Remember, you can schedule via the email if needed-see post below. 

Stomach Bug

Well it is starting to happen and for you all with older kids you know how bad these stomach bugs can be. The dreaded GI bug. This usually starts with a low grade temp and a fussy baby who does not want to eat. Then comes the vomiting and diarrhea.

For babies (and parents) who have not vomited before this is usually traumatic. The amount can seem like alot. Then may come the diarrhea and this is what you need to be worried about. It is unusual for babies to get dehydrated from vomiting alone, however when you add diarrhea it is possible.

Some general guidelines:
1. You want to make sure the amount of what comes out of your baby is matched by the amount that goes in.
2. Treat fever to make them more comfortable-see web site for dosage instructions.
3. After each episode of vomiting-wait at least an hour, then offer small amounts of Pedialyte (if under one) or water, gatorade or pedialyte if over one. The amount varies per size of your child, but is usually about 1 to 2tsp every 5 minutes-if tolerating after one hour, may double the amount.
4. Once they are eating-try to stick with higher protein and lower carbs foods until the diarrhea resolves.
5. Call the office is there is a high fever or blood in the stool.
6. The illness may last for 5-7days.
7. Be sure and get the rotavirus vaccine.
8. We can do IV fluids in the office if your child is dehydrated.

Good luck during the upcoming winter.