An acute gastrointestinal infection can most often be caused by a relatively harmless microbial or viral pathogen, and can resolve on its own within a few days. However, the most common manifestation of such an infection is profuse loose stools (diarrhea), which can be life-threatening for the child because it can dehydrate the body. The cause of diarrhea, in most cases, is viruses (rotavirus, adenovirus or norovirus (“stomach flu”)), less often the culprits are intestinal bacteria or infectious toxins. Viruses and bacteria enter a child’s body not only with unwashed hands, but also with food products, such as raw (unpasteurized) milk, undercooked meat, and most often with unboiled drinking water or water from swimming ponds and pools. The cause of diarrhea can also be the presence of a source of infection in a different location in the body, taking antibiotics, excessive consumption of sugary carbonated drinks, fruit juices, sweets, and also, in some children, mental overload and stress.
Course of the disease
Frequent bowel movements, with loose stools, large volumes of bowel movements and an unpleasant odor. In this case, the child experiences mild or moderate abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and fever are possible.
When to call a doctor
Contact your doctor if diarrhea lasts more than three days.
During the day for diarrhea in a baby under 6 months of age and at a temperature above 39°C; if the child’s skin becomes yellowish or pale; if rashes appear on the skin (not only on the butt); if the baby is poisoned by food, or if diarrhea appears after a trip to other countries.
Contact your doctor immediately if your child has severe abdominal pain or if you find blood in the stool – this could be life-threatening enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC); if abdominal pain begins in the navel and moves to the lower abdomen on the right (symptom of appendicitis); if the child’s general well-being deteriorates, apathy or signs of dehydration appear (dry tongue, crying without tears and pale gray skin color).
Doctor’s help
As a rule, the doctor prescribes medications that regulate the body’s water and electrolyte balance. Prescribing antibiotics is possible only in special cases, for example, with diarrhea caused by salmonella or amoebas.
Your help to the child
Children of any age can eat regular foods when they are hungry. The exception is products with a high concentration of sugar (undiluted juices) – it is better to avoid them. If you experience nausea or vomiting, it is better to stop eating food for a while. It is very important to maintain a drinking regime. Dehydration can be avoided by giving your child a teaspoon every few minutes. Infants who vomit should be breastfed as often as possible.
Tea with chamomile and fennel, as well as medications and natural yoghurts containing lactobacilli, will help alleviate the symptoms. It is necessary to avoid cola and tea based drinks.