Diarrhoea and Vomiting

​Vomiting is the forced emptying of the stomach through the mouth ("throwing up") and Diarrhoea is the frequent passage of liquid stools.

Both occur together commonly due to viral or bacterial infections of the gut. They may also occur due to food intolerance and as side effects of certain medications such as antibiotics.

HOW TO TREAT AT HOME:

• Sip small amounts of water or sports drinks.
• Do not take solid food until vomiting has stopped.

SEE YOUR GP IF YOU:

• Have Vomiting that affects your ability to eat and drink.
• Have stomach pain.
• Have fever.
• Have blood or mucous in your stools.
• Have diarrhoea persisting for more than two days.
• Have recently travelled to a developing country where infectious diseases are common.

GO TO THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT IF YOU:

• Have high fever.
• Have severe stomach pain.
• Have large amounts of blood in your stools.
• Have severe dehydration, (e.g. you feel very thirsty, giddy and weak).