Q: My toddler has a high fever, stomachache, and vomited undigested food. Is it indigestion?

Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Question:

My 35-month-old child (15.5 kg) has had a high fever for two days. We went to the clinic today and tested negative for the flu. However, my child just vomited, and the food came out completely undigested. Their hands and feet are cold (current temperature is 38°C). Their face was extremely pale, but their color seemed to improve a bit after vomiting. Since yesterday, my child has been complaining of a stomachache and tapping their upper abdomen, which eventually led to today's vomiting.

The doctor mentioned that the throat is extremely red with a few red spots, and said it could develop into stomatitis or hand, foot, and mouth disease if it worsens. I feel like it might just be severe indigestion. What could this be? Can I give them over-the-counter children's digestive medicine?

Answer:

It is completely understandable that you are worried, especially since your child is dealing with a high fever for two days and is now vomiting.

Looking at the overall symptoms:

• High fever for 2 days + vomiting + abdominal pain + severe throat inflammation with spots

• Vomiting undigested food

• Cold hands and feet with a pale face (while running a 38°C fever)

Rather than simple indigestion, this presentation strongly suggests a viral infection (indicated by the throat inflammation) accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms. The red spots in the throat could also point to a streptococcal infection or another specific viral illness.

Here is what you can do to help your child right now:

1. Hydration over Digestion: Withhold food and drink for about 30 minutes after the vomiting episode. After that, start offering water in very small sips (1-2 sips at a time). Preventing dehydration is much more important than giving digestive medicine right now, so please skip the over-the-counter digestive aids.

2. Fever Management: Since your child is prone to vomiting, using a fever-reducing suppository is recommended instead of oral syrups.

3. Rest: Keep your child in a comfortable resting position. Avoid pressing on or massaging the abdomen.

⚠️ Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following:

• The vomiting is continuous or contains bile (yellow/green color).

• Your child has not urinated for 8 hours or more.

• The abdominal pain becomes severe, or the stomach feels rigid/hard to the touch.

• The spots in the throat spread rapidly, or your child develops difficulty breathing.

Because viral infections and gastrointestinal upset can overlap and evolve rapidly, please take your child to see a pediatrician again tomorrow morning for a follow-up evaluation.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us