What should you know about fever vomiting and diarrhea?

Gastroenteritis, food poisoning, and rotavirus infection can present with fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other problems, including migraine, gallstones, pancreatitis, or meningitis, can also involve vomiting but need different assessment. The amount of fluid lost, abdominal or head pain, blood in vomit or stool, recent food and travel exposure, age, and medical conditions change the level of concern. These symptoms do not identify one cause without an examination.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. If vomiting follows a large drink, pause briefly and restart with smaller sips. Once fluids stay down, try plain foods in modest portions and avoid alcohol or foods that clearly worsen symptoms. Wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for others while diarrhea continues. Do not use anti-diarrhea medicines for a child or when there is blood or high fever without clinical advice.

Seek urgent help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a stiff neck, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, blood or dark material in vomit, blood in stool, or inability to keep fluids down. Prompt review is needed for very little urine, a dry mouth, marked weakness, sunken eyes, or fever in a young child, older adult, pregnant person, or someone with a weakened immune system. Contact a clinician if symptoms continue or worsen.

How can I tell whether I am becoming dehydrated? Which rehydration product and foods fit my situation? Could my medicines, travel, or a recent meal be relevant?