What should you know about cause of vomiting and diarrhea?

Gastroenteritis inflames the stomach and bowel and may bring cramps, nausea, watery stools, fever and vomiting. Food Poisoning can begin after contaminated food or drink and may affect several people who shared it. Rotavirus Infection is another infectious cause, particularly in children. Gallstones or Pancreatitis can cause vomiting with pronounced upper abdominal pain rather than mainly loose stools. A severe headache, stiff neck, confusion or light sensitivity requires urgent assessment because Meningitis can include vomiting. The duration, pain pattern, fever, blood in stool and recent exposures help guide evaluation.

Take small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solution. If vomiting settles, add light foods gradually and avoid alcohol and rich meals for a while. Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating; avoid preparing food for others while symptoms continue. Record fluid intake, urine output, stool changes, fever, pain, recent meals, travel and sick contacts. Do not give children unfamiliar medicines without advice.

Seek urgent help for blood or black stool, blood or green vomit, severe abdominal pain, a rigid or swollen abdomen, confusion, fainting, severe headache or a stiff neck. Arrange prompt care if the person cannot keep fluids down, passes very little urine, becomes unusually sleepy, or is a young child, older adult, pregnant person or someone with a serious long-term condition.

Ask whether the pattern suggests infection, food-related illness, medicine effects or another abdominal problem. Tell the clinician when it began, what was eaten, whether others are ill, whether there is fever or blood, and how often fluids and urine are being passed.