Diarrhea and Vomiting in Children: Dehydration Signs and What to Do

The main short-term risk from vomiting and diarrhea is dehydration. Parents should track drinking, urine, alertness, tears, mouth dryness, vomiting frequency, stool frequency, and whether the child can keep fluids down.

Go to urgent or emergency care

• The child is very weak, difficult to wake, confused, or collapsing.
• There is no urine for a prolonged period, very dry mouth, no tears, or sunken eyes.
• The child cannot keep fluids down or vomits repeatedly.
• There is blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, green vomit, or a swollen abdomen.
• The child is a young infant or has a serious underlying condition.

What parents can do while arranging care

Offer small, frequent amounts of an appropriate oral rehydration solution. Large amounts given quickly can trigger more vomiting. Continue age-appropriate feeding when tolerated. Avoid forcing food.

What to avoid

• Do not rely on sugary drinks, soft drinks, or sports drinks as the main rehydration fluid.
• Do not give anti-diarrheal medicine to a child unless specifically instructed.
• Do not self-start antibiotics.
• Do not delay assessment when urine output or alertness is worsening.

Track this information

• Start time and frequency of vomiting and diarrhea
• Fluid intake
• Urine count and last urination
• Fever and abdominal pain
• Blood or mucus in stool
• Sick contacts, travel, and recent medicines

Book a pediatric assessment. For severe dehydration or rapid deterioration, proceed directly to the nearest emergency department.

Source

World Health Organization: Diarrhoeal disease

Medically reviewed by Dr. Justin Ong Ho. Last reviewed August 1, 2026.