Gastro and Dehydration

My son and I have recently had gastro. Gastro is a very contagious viral infection and there for if you think your child or yourself has it you should avoid contact with other people. Particularly those with weakened immune systems such as young children and the elderly. Unfortunately there is not much that can be done other then rest and replenishing lost fluids. For children in particular about 15 - 30 ml of water every 15 minutes. There are the gastrolyte drinks or icepoles available at the chemist. If vomiting has been going on for more than 24 hours and they have not passed urine in 12 hours medical attention should be sought. Also if they are showing any other signs of dehydration such as complaining of a head ache, appear to be dizzy have a stomach ache or in babies become protective of the tummy (by pulling their legs up), if you press on the middle of the chest and a white spot appears if it takes more than 20 seconds to dissappear (is an sign of how dehydrated they are) and if they become particularly irritable or lethargic and not responding to anything seek medical attention immediately.
Vomiting in gastro should not last more than 24 - 36 hours and diahorrea more than 7 - 10 days. If you are at all concerned about your child or yourself do go to your doctor to get a professional diagnosis because in babies and young children vomiting and diahorrea can be symptoms of may things such as pneumonia and other infections. In adults their immunity to such viruses should have been able to fight it off.
Do not be particularly concerned about your child not eating if they have gastro because your main concern is keeping them hydrated. after 8 hours of not vomiting and keeping down substantial fluids you can introduce the B.R.A.T diet. Bananas, rice, apple sauce, and toast. When they are able to keep these foods down then start introducing them back to their normal diet avoiding any acitic foods until the diahorrea has stopped as this will help to reduce redness and soreness in the bum. Avoid any dairy until the gastro has cleared up completely as dairy only aggrovates the stomach and encourages vomiting. If your child is not on solids yet try a lactose free formula.
I cannot stress enough the importance of seeking medical attention if you are at all concerned about the well being of your child because no matter how well any one knows your child, they will never know them like you do. If you are not happy with the first opinion seek a second one.

Hope this was helpful and you enjoyed reading it.