8 month old won't keep anything down..help please!

[Jo2909]

Hi
My son is just 8 months since last night he has been very restless and bringin everything back that he has eaten, took him to hospital they just said give calpol, tried him with some more milk today and he has bought it all back up I'm really worried he isn't getting what he needs..anyone been in this situation that could advise me? Should I just give him water and let his stomach settle? He's asleep at the minute thanks x

I was just logging on to ask the same question! Mine's 13 months and has a tummy bug, can't keep even water down, so was hoping to find someone to reassure me it won't last....

I think I might be able to help you a bit though because he's had a bug before (Jan) and the Dr gave us some useful advice. Key thing was not to give much at a time - even if they seem desperately thirsty or hungry and want to guzzle the lot. And don't worry about solid food (if you're there already) - they can manage without for a day or so without a worry. If you're breast feeding, keep it up - little and often - and hopefully some will stay down. If you're formula feeding (like me) then our Dr said to dilute it to half the normal strength and just give an ounce or two every now and then (30-60ml maybe every 15-20 mins or less often still). Again, hopefully some will stay down. After a day or so of that staying put, dilute it a bit less and so on until after 4 or 5 days it's back up to full strength. I found it easier to buy some cartons and leave the rest in the fridge (up to 24 hours after opening is ok). If you are giving solids, don't bother for day 1, then start back on dry stuff if possible (breadsticks, toast, biscuits etc).

If nothing's staying put at all then keep an eye on nappies. 6-8 hours without a wet nappy shows they're getting too dehydrated and its best to get them to a dr for a check. Take them to Dr tomorrow anyway if you can for a bit of reassurance. Good luck....

You can give dioralyte to them which will help replace fluids and salts/sugars in a safe proportion. Little and often with that and see how things go. If he is getting very lethargic or causes you any worry give the out of hours GP a call for further advice.