What should you know about indigestion vomiting and diarrhea?

Indigestion usually describes upper-abdominal discomfort, fullness, burning or nausea. Vomiting and diarrhoea add loss of fluid and salts and are more suggestive of an acute infection, food-related illness or medicine effect than uncomplicated indigestion. Gastritis can include nausea and vomiting, while other digestive conditions may cause overlapping discomfort. Acid reflux alone does not typically explain prominent diarrhoea. The pattern, timing, fever, abdominal pain and whether others are ill help a clinician judge the cause.

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, choose simple foods as tolerated and avoid alcohol, rich meals and medicines that upset your stomach. Rest and wash your hands carefully, especially after using the bathroom or before preparing food. Do not take anti-diarrhoea or anti-vomiting medicines for a child, during pregnancy, or alongside other treatment without professional advice.

Get urgent help for severe or localised abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, confusion, fainting, blood in vomit or stool, black stools, chest pressure, breathlessness, or inability to keep fluids down. Seek prompt medical advice for signs of dehydration such as very little urine, marked dizziness, dry mouth or unusual weakness. Children, older adults, pregnant people and those with significant health conditions may need earlier review. Contact a clinician if symptoms are persistent, worsening or keep returning.

Could this be an infection, food-related illness or medicine effect? How much fluid should I aim to take and which rehydration product is suitable? Do I need testing? Which warning signs mean I should go to urgent care?