Acute diarrhea in children
Acute diarrhea in children
Acute diarrhea in children is a condition characterized by:
- Passing stools that are more liquid than usual
- Having three or more bowel movements per day
- Lasting no more than 7 days + May be accompanied by mucus or blood in the stool
Most cases are caused by viral, bacterial, or protozoal infections, and may also result from the side effects of antibiotics.
To treat:
l If there is mild dehydration and vomiting is not severe, you can give oral rehydration solution (ORS).
l Use ORS powder dissolved in water specifically for diarrhea. Avoid using sports drinks or other types of sweetened beverages as they have different compositions and may worsen diarrhea. If the child can only tolerate a small amount or is vomiting, give ORS in small amounts, either orally or through a syringe or dropper. Ensure they consume at least 500 ml of ORS for every 10 kg of body weight within 4 hours.
If dehydration is moderate to severe, seek medical attention.
l Breastfeeding can continue as normal. For formula-fed infants, diluted milk should be avoided. Older children can consume starchy foods, lean meats, yogurt, vegetables, and fruits. High-fat foods, fruit juices, and sweets should be avoided. If there is moderate to severe dehydration or if there is excessive diarrhea causing redness around the anus, consider switching to lactose-free or soy milk.
l Antibiotics are not necessary unless there is suspicion of bacterial infection such as high fever with bloody diarrhea and low immunity. Anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide should not be used as they may worsen symptoms or delay recovery.
l Probiotics, certain strains of beneficial bacteria, or anti-secretory agents may help reduce the duration of diarrhea, although their efficacy is limited and they can be expensive.
l Preventing the spread of infection is important. Keep the child out of school until they recover. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially under the nails, between fingers, and wrists. Wash hands after changing diapers, before and after preparing food, and after using the bathroom. Avoid swimming for children who cannot control bowel movements, especially within the first week of recovering from diarrhea.
Reviewed by : Pediatrics Center
Saint Louis Hospital