There are many causes of diarrhoea. Diarrhoea can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites or intolerance to certain food such as cow milk or fruit juices. Excessive intake of apple, banana or prune juice can cause diarrhoea. Intestinal or bowel disorder will also cause diarrhoea. Some medication such as antibiotics and antacids affects children resulting in watery stools.
Diarrhoea Can Lead More Serious Problems
Diarrhoea will lead to dehydration if not handled properly. The loss of body fluid can affect the body's normal functions. When suffering from diarrhoea, a child's intestinal lining may lose certain enzymes that are necessary for breaking down carbohydrates. Common cow's milk can aggravate the condition further leading to excessive fluid loss. For young children, this can lead to more serious health problem.
How to Handle Diarrhoea in Young Children
It is important to feed your child fliud frequently. Even if your child vomits, some fluid will still be absorbed. This will help to prevent dehydration. Your doctor may prescribe oral electrolyte solution. This help to quickly replenish fliud and electrolytes lost from your child's body. Do not use home made salt solution as the quantity of salt may be too much. Do not use sports drinks either. If in doubt consult your doctor.
Try to feed your child as normal as possible. Your child still need constant nutrition. Feed smaller portions if necessary. Serve more of the starchy food such as bread, pasta, cereal, rice or mashed potatoes. If your child show signs of intolerance to formula cow milk, you can switch to soy-based milk.
If your child's condition does not improve in 24 to 48 hours, you should consult the doctor again. Other signs to watch out for are blood in stools and high temperature.
Signs of Dehydration
If your child shows these signs of dehydration, you should consult your doctor.
- No tears when crying
- Dark area around eyes
- Decreased urine production
- Dry tongue and mouth
- Sunken eyes
- Sunken soft spot on top of head
