Vomiting, Age 3 And Younger: Preparing For Your Appointment

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Preparing For Your Appointment

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.

You can help your doctor diagnose and treat your child's condition by being prepared to answer the following questions:

• Did you have problems during your pregnancy or with the delivery of this child?
• What do you think might be causing your baby's vomiting?
• Has your child been exposed to someone with a similar illness?
• How long has the vomiting been going on?
• Does your child have any other symptoms, such as fever, belly pain, or diarrhea?
• Has your child had a recent fall or injury?
• How many times has your child vomited? How much fluid is lost each time?
• Is your child able to hold down fluids?
• What does the vomit look like?
  • Is there any blood or yellow or green liquid (bile) in the vomit?
  • Did you find any unusual liquids or pills in the vomit?
• What does the vomit smell like?
• What prescription or nonprescription medicines are in your home?
• Did your child's symptoms start after eating at a restaurant? Has anyone else who ate there with you become ill?
• Has your child recently eaten raw or undercooked seafood?
• Do you think your child may have eaten any contaminated food?
• Has your child recently visited a foreign country?
• Has your child recently drunk water from a lake, stream, or private well?
• Has your child had any known exposure to toxic materials, chemicals, or fumes?
• Do you or any other members of your household smoke?
• Does your child have any health risks?

Last updated:	July 12, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Terrina Vail