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Suggest Treatment For Stomach Bug, Mild Diarrhea And Vomiting

Posted on Mon, 7 Apr 2014

Question: 14 year old daughter has same stomach bug as rest of family. But, she is way worse, now throwing up bile and getting "waves" up her body that make her feel "terrified" . No fever, also has mild diarrhea, no obvious signs if dehydration. And, keeping tiny sips of Powerade down every fifteen minutes. Is it common for a stomach flu to provoke anxiety/panic? No history of it in the family. Tips to keep her calm....she has a hard time doing the breathing techniques I found online because it triggers vomiting. Any advice or tips to help her?

Answered by Dr. Y V Siva Sankara Murty (2 hours later)

Brief Answer: You should not attribute her problem to anxiety. Detailed Answer: Hi, Thanks for writing to health care magic. I can understand your concern. I think you should not attribute her problem to anxiety or panic. Children and adolescents do not respond to illness the same way as adults. The problem she is facing may be more severe than other members of the family. It could also be that she may be facing different problem. Please consult your doctor for a complete physical examination. He will assess the problem your daughter is facing and may order necessary investigations. Some times electrolyte disturbances can occur after repeated vomiting finally resulting in various problems. He may order anti emetics to control her vomiting. If necessary intravenous fluid administration may be required. Do not try to self medicate her or self treat her. Please do not attribute her behaviour to just anxiety. Continue to ask further queries as required. Hope this helps. Take care. Dr Y V Siva Sankara Murty M.D.(Pediatrics) Associate Professor of Pediatrics

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Y V Siva Sankara Murty (17 minutes later)

I called family doctor, he was the one that suggested anxiety due to "mechanical irritation from vomiting" and something about a Vegas nerve can mimic the feelings of "flight or fight"?? Would this be correct information? He just said keep giving her fluids and bring her in tomorrow if it hasn't stopped in 24 hours.

Answered by Dr. Y V Siva Sankara Murty (12 hours later)

Brief Answer: Your child should be examined. Detailed Answer: Hi, I wouldn't completely agree with that. It could be anxiety; but your child should be examined first before coming to such a conclusion. All the other possibilities should be ruled out by physical examination and investigations as required. This should be done before designating anxiety as the cause. You may want to visit another specialist for a second opinion. Take care.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad