Diarrhea in children: causes, symptoms, and treatments

1- What is diarrhea?

Diarrhea is characterized by frequent loose or watery stools, often accompanied by abdominal pain and bloating. In children, it is considered acute if it lasts a few days but can become chronic if it persists for more than three weeks.

2- Causes of diarrhea in children

There are several causes of diarrhea in children, including:

a. Viral infections
Gastrointestinal infections are the most common cause of acute diarrhea in children. Viruses such as rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus are often responsible and may also cause vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain.

b. Bacterial infections
Bacteria like Salmonella, Shigella, or Escherichia coli can cause severe diarrhea, often from consuming contaminated food or water.

c. Parasites
Intestinal parasites such as Giardia can lead to prolonged diarrhea, especially in areas with poor hygiene and limited access to clean water.

d. Food allergies or intolerances
Lactose intolerance or allergies to certain foods (such as gluten) can trigger repeated episodes of diarrhea, often accompanied by bloating and abdominal pain.

e. Medications
Antibiotics can disrupt the child’s gut flora, leading to temporary diarrhea.

f. Dietary changes
In infants, the transition to solid foods or a change in formula can cause looser stools. Excessive consumption of fruit juices or sugary foods may also contribute to diarrhea.

3- Symptoms accompanying diarrhea

In addition to frequent and watery stools, diarrhea may present with other symptoms:

• Abdominal pain or cramps

• Mild to high fever, depending on the underlying cause

• Vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Irritability or fatigue

• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, little to no urine, crying without tears, sunken eyes)

4- Risks associated with diarrhea

The main risk of diarrhea, especially in young children, is dehydration. Children lose fluids and essential minerals quickly when experiencing frequent diarrhea. It is crucial to monitor for signs of dehydration:

• Rare or dark urine

• Dry lips and mouth

• Drowsiness or excessive irritability

• Absence of tears when crying

If these signs appear, consult a pediatrician immediately to prevent serious complications.

5- How to treat diarrhea in children?

The treatment depends on the cause, but here are some general recommendations:

a. Rehydration
Rehydration is the top priority. Give your child oral rehydration solutions (ORS) available at pharmacies to replace lost electrolytes. Plain water is insufficient as it lacks the necessary salts and minerals.

Zinc supplements are often recommended to reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea episodes.

b. Diet
Even during diarrhea, it is important to continue feeding your child with easily digestible foods:

• Rice, bananas, applesauce, toast, cooked carrots

• Avoid fatty foods, dairy products (if intolerant), and sugary juices, as they may worsen symptoms

c. Medications
Antibiotics or antiparasitic medications may be prescribed if the diarrhea is caused by a bacterial or parasitic infection. However, antidiarrheal medications are generally not recommended for young children, as they may hinder the elimination of the infection.

d. Rest
Adequate rest is essential to help your child recover more quickly.

6- How to prevent diarrhea in children?

Preventing diarrhea involves simple but effective measures:

• Wash your child’s hands regularly, especially before meals and after using the bathroom.

• Avoid sharing personal items like utensils, bottles, or cups.

• Ensure food is cooked thoroughly and stored properly to avoid contamination.

• Vaccinate your child against rotavirus, a leading cause of severe diarrhea in infants.

7- When to consult a pediatrician?

Consult a doctor if diarrhea lasts more than two days in a young child or if it is accompanied by concerning symptoms (high fever, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration).

Conclusion

Diarrhea is common in children but can quickly become concerning due to the risk of dehydration. Prompt and appropriate care is essential to prevent complications.