Diarrhea
Diarrhea is defined either as watery stool or increased frequency (or both)
when compared to a normal amount. It is a common problem that may last a few
days and disappear on its own.
Diarrhea may be:
- Acute (short-term, lasting less than two weeks), which is usually related
to bacterial or viral infections.
- Chronic (long-term, lasting longer than two weeks), which is usually
related to functional disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, or may be
due to diseases such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, celiac sprue, or
Giardia.
Diarrhea in children may be caused by a number of conditions, including the
following:
- Bacterial infection
- Viral infection
- Food intolerances or allergies
- Parasites
- Reaction to medications
The following are the most common symptoms for diarrhea. However, each child
may experience symptoms differently. Severe diarrhea may indicate a serious
disease, making it important to consult your child's physician if any/all of the
following symptoms persist:
- Cramping
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Urgent need to use the restroom
- Fever
- Bloody stools
The symptoms of diarrhea may resemble other conditions or medical problems.
Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.
You should call your pediatrician if your child is less than 6 months of age
or presents any of the following symptoms:
- Abdominal pain
- Blood in the stool
- Frequent vomiting
- Loss of appetite for liquids
- High fever
- Dry, sticky mouth
- Weight loss
- Urinates less frequently (wets fewer than 6 diapers per day)
- Frequent diarrhea
- Extreme thirst
- No tears when crying
In addition to a complete physical examination and laboratory tests for blood
and urine, the child's physician may request:
- Laboratory examination of stool sample
- Additional blood tests
Specific treatment for diarrhea will be determined by your child's physician
based on:
- Your child's age, overall health, and medical history
- Extent of the condition
- Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- The expectations for the course of the condition
- Your opinion or preference
Treatment usually involves replacing lost fluids. Antibiotics may be
prescribed when bacterial infections are the cause.
A child with diarrhea can have regular fluids or special fluids (such as
Pedialyte™ or Gatorade™) for diarrhea. Do not use anti-diarrheal medications
unless recommended by your child's physician.