The majority of cases of vomiting in infants and children are caused by viruses. Most of the time when they vomit, they will get better quickly without any treatment. You should not use over the counter or prescription drugs for vomiting unless your physician has directed you to do so for this particular illness. If vomiting persists, your child may become dehydrated. Dehydration is a condition where the body loses so much fluid that it does not have enough fluid present to function properly. To prevent this from happening, watch your child closely for signs of dehydration, such as sunken eyes, no tears, very dry lips and mouth, lethargy or reduced or lack of urine or wet diapers. In addition, you should contact your pediatrician right away if your child has severe or localized abdominal pain, listlessness or high fever. To prevent dehydration, make sure your child drinks enough extra fluids to restore the fluids that have been lost due to vomiting. Pedialyte is an electrolyte solution that can help maintain hydration in your child. Start with only sips every few minutes, slowing increasing the volume over time. Giving too much to drink too quickly may cause the vomiting to restart. As your child improves, you may increase fluids but continue on a liquid diet for 12-24 hours. If your child can’t hold down any pedialyte or clear liquids, or if the vomiting becomes more severe, please call our office as your child may need to be examined. Most children do not need medication to treat vomiting but your physician may prescribe an anti nausea medicine if it is necessary.