Diarrhea is the passage of loose or watery stools that may contain blood, pus, or mucus. Children with diarrhea often have additional symptoms including nausea, vomiting, stomach aches, headache, and fever.
Diarrhea can be
* acute– happens suddenly, and for brief periods, or
* chronic– an ongoing and persistent medical problem such as intestinal worms.
Diarrhea can impact the ability of the body to process and absorb necessary water, salts and nutrition and can lead to dehydration, shock and even death.
How do you treat diarrhea?
Dehydration is the biggest threat from diarrheal diseases in children. Illnesses that cause diarrhea or vomiting can lead to dehydration if the child loses more body fluids and salts (electrolytes) than he/she takes in. To prevent dehydration, your child may require special fluids.
* The best fluid to give children with diarrhea is an oral rehydration solution such as Ceralyte, Pedialyte or Oralyte. These solutions can be purchased in nearly all drug stores and grocery stores. Parents should keep 2 bottles or packages of these solutions on hand in case your child gets diarrhea. Follow the instructions on the solution according to your child’s age.
* Sports drinks do not replace the fluid losses correctly and should not be used for the treatment of diarrheal illness.
* Children who are breastfeeding, taking formula, or eating solids should continue to follow their usual diet.
The best chance to prevent dehydration, hospitalization or death from diarrheal diseases is by making sure children receive enough fluids, and by seeking medical care when diarrhea is severe or you are concerned about dehydration. It is vital to replace fluids properly. Your health care provider can help you decide what is right for your child.
When should you call a doctor if your child has diarrhea?
Contact your health care provider if diarrhea is accompanied by the following (particularly if your child is less than 6 months of age):
* High fever (temperature over 101.5 F, measured orally)
* Blood in stools
* Prolonged vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down (which can lead to dehydration)
* Signs of dehydration, including
o Decrease in urination
o Sunken eyes
o No tears when child cries
o Extreme thirst
o Unusual drowsiness or fussiness
o Dry, sticky mouth
o How do you prevent spreading diarrheal illnesses?
Careful and frequent handwashing can prevent the spread of infection to other people.
o Adults should wash their hands after using the toilet, helping a child use the toilet, and diapering a child and before preparing, serving, or eating food.
o Children should wash their hands after using the toilet, after having their diapers changed (an adult should wash infant's or small child's hands), and before eating snacks or meals.
Disinfect toys, bathrooms, and food preparation surfaces frequently, especially if a sick child has been in the home.
Use diapers with waterproof outer covers that can contain liquid stool or urine, or use plastic pants
Make sure that children wear clothes over diapers.
