What to do if…
vomiting or diarrhea is causing dehydration and you cannot keep fluids down

What to do now

1. Call 111 now if you are in England, Scotland or Wales. In Northern Ireland, phone your GP practice or GP out-of-hours service. Clearly say that vomiting or diarrhoea is causing dehydration and fluids are not staying down.
2. Call 999 or go to an emergency department now if the person is confused, not responding normally, difficult to wake, severely short of breath, taking many quick breaths, or has cold, blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin. Also get emergency help for vomit containing blood or material resembling coffee grounds, or a sudden severe headache or tummy pain.
3. While waiting for advice, if the person is awake and can swallow safely, try small sips of water or diluted squash often rather than a large drink. Increase the amount gradually only if it stays down.
4. For a baby, continue breastfeeding or usual-strength formula in smaller, more frequent feeds if they can swallow safely. Tell the urgent-care service immediately if the baby or child has stopped feeding, has fewer wet nappies, has few or no tears, or is becoming drowsy.
5. If small sips begin staying down, use an oral rehydration solution recommended by a pharmacist or clinician and prepare it exactly as directed. Do not delay urgent medical advice to obtain it.
6. Note when the person last passed urine or had a wet nappy, whether there is blood in the vomit or diarrhoea, and whether they have a fast heartbeat, dizziness, unusual sleepiness or worsening weakness.
7. Tell the clinician about the person’s age, medicines, pregnancy, diabetes, kidney problems, weakened immune system or other health conditions. Ask someone to stay nearby if the person is weak or dizzy.