Diarrhea

​DIARRHEA IN CHILDREN

What Is Diarrhea?

Diarrhea is when a child passes loose, watery stools more often than usual. It is common in children and is often caused by an infection affecting the stomach and intestines.

Most cases improve within a few days. However, young children can become dehydrated quickly, so preventing dehydration is one of the most important parts of caring for a child with diarrhea.

What Causes Diarrhea in Children?

Common causes include:

• Viruses, such as rotavirus and norovirus.
• Bacterial infections from contaminated food or water.
• Parasites, such as Giardia.
• Food poisoning.
• Food intolerance or allergy.
• Certain medicines, including some antibiotics.
• Gastroenteritis (infection of the stomach and intestines).

Common Symptoms

A child with diarrhea may have:

• Loose or watery stools.
• Frequent bowel movements.
• Stomach pain or cramps.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Fever.
• Poor appetite.
• Tiredness or irritability.

When diarrhea occurs together with vomiting, the risk of dehydration is higher.

The Main Concern: Dehydration

Diarrhea and vomiting can cause the body to lose water and important salts. Babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to dehydration.

Signs of dehydration may include:

• Fewer wet diapers or passing urine less often.
• A dry mouth or lips.
• Few or no tears when crying.
• Sunken eyes.
• Unusual sleepiness or irritability.
• Dark-colored urine.
• Fast breathing.
• In young babies, a sunken soft spot on the head (fontanelle).

How to Care for a Child With Diarrhea

1. Give Plenty of Fluids

The most important goal is to replace the fluids lost through diarrhea and vomiting.

Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) can help replace water and essential salts lost from the body. If the child is vomiting, offer small amounts frequently rather than giving a large amount at once.

2. Continue Breastfeeding

If your baby is breastfed, continue breastfeeding.

If your child drinks formula, continue their normal formula. Do not dilute formula with extra water unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.

3. Continue Feeding

If the child is hungry and normally eats solid foods, offer simple foods such as:

• Rice
• Pasta
• Bread
• Soup
• Other familiar foods that the child tolerates

Do not force a child to eat, but continue offering fluids regularly.

4. Avoid Drinks That May Make Diarrhea Worse

Avoid giving children fizzy drinks and large amounts of fruit juice, as these may sometimes make diarrhea worse.

Do not give anti-diarrheal medicines to young children unless recommended by a doctor or pharmacist.

How Can Diarrhea Be Prevented?

Good hygiene can reduce the spread of infections that cause diarrhea:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet.
• Wash hands before preparing or eating food.
• Use safe drinking water.
• Cook food thoroughly.
• Store food safely.
• Clean toilets, taps, and frequently touched surfaces.
• Avoid sharing towels and eating utensils with someone who has diarrhea.
• Make sure children receive recommended vaccinations, including rotavirus vaccination where available.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

Seek medical advice if your child:

• Shows signs of dehydration.
• Is a young baby and is passing much less urine than usual.
• Has blood in the stool.
• Keeps vomiting and cannot keep fluids down.
• Has difficulty breathing or is breathing much faster than usual.
• Has diarrhea lasting more than 7 days.
• Becomes increasingly unwell or you are seriously concerned about their condition.                                                             #Neylahealth.com.