Diarrhea in Children

Children's diarrhea is a common condition, which normally lasts a few days and disappears on its own. The most common cause is a simple stomach virus.

Symptoms of Diarrhea

Symptoms of diarrhea include loose stools and vomiting. A fever often, but not always, accompanies this condition. Vomiting may or may not be present. Each case is unique.

Causes of Diarrhea

Although diarrhea in children is usually caused by a simple stomach virus, causes may include:

• Viral infection


• Bacterial infection


• Parasites


• Allergies


• Medication side effects

Treatment

• Children should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Some children cannot tolerate milk when ill, so consider temporarily removing it from their diet. However, breastfeeding may continue.


• Your pediatrician may recommend a bland diet. Typical suggested foods include: bananas, rice, crackers, and baked chicken.


• Avoid giving your child anti-diarrheal medications without your doctor's consent. Normally, they are forbidden.


• Notify your doctor if your child runs a high fever (more than 102 degrees Fahrenheit.) Also, consult your doctor if your child has recently traveled, in case he contacted something during his journeys.


• Contact your child's pediatrician if your child is under six months old, and has persistent diarrhea accompanied by persisting fever or bloody stools and cramping.

Prevention

Viruses are often transmitted via the fecal-oral route; by having hands in unsanitary places and then sucking their thumb. That's why it's important that children frequently wash their hands. Making sure that foods like meat are fully cooked and fresh will also help to prevent common diarrhea.