25/11/2025
omiting and diarrhoea affect both children and adults, but the risks and care needs can differ. Here’s what to watch out for and how to respond 🧠
👶 Children vs 🧔 Adults - What’s Different?
Children:
‑ Dehydrate more quickly - loss of fluid builds up faster
‑ More vulnerable to electrolyte imbalance
‑ May refuse drinking or have a harder time telling how they feel
‑ Risk signs: dry nappies, sunken eyes, irritability, listlessness
Adults:
‑ Might manage symptoms longer before seeking help
‑ Risk of complications if they have chronic conditions (e.g. diabetes, kidney disease)
‑ The underlying cause can vary (infection, foodborne, side effect of meds)
✅ What to Do (For All Ages)
🛌 Rest & stay home
💧 Sip small amounts of fluids frequently
🍚 Once able, introduce bland, easy-to-digest foods
🧼 Wash hands often, especially after bathroom or caring for sick
❌ Avoid preparing food for others until 48 hours after symptoms subside
⚠️ When to Seek Medical Help
Watch for these red flags (in both children & adults):
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea lasting more than a few days
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Unable to keep fluids down
• Signs of dehydration (dizziness, extreme thirst, low urine output)
• High fever or unexplained pain
More trusted advice here:
👉 https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/diarrhoea-and-vomiting/
