Most kids present diarrhea from time to time. It can last for a couple of days or longer. Moms feel irritated to see their baby or child annoyed by the frequent runny and watery bowel movement. Diarrhea can be mild and can be dangerous if not treated. It can incite dehydration which can lead to hospitalization.
What causes diarrhea?
Viruses as rotavirus
Bacteria as Salmonella or shigella
Food poisoning
Parasites
Water supply contamination
Lactose intolerance
Celiac disease
Medicine reaction
How does diarrhea spread?
Dirty hands
Contaminated food or water
Contaminated surfaces which include toys, tables, and toilet seats.
What are diarrhea’s symptoms?
Abdominal cramps
Frequent bowel movement
Watery stool
Loss of appetite
Fever
Nausea and vomiting
Weigh loss
Dehydration
Blood or mucus in the stool
Tips to handle diarrhea:
No mom will like seeing her child having diarrhea, but you should know that it is impossible to prevent any contamination especially if your child is attending school or nursery. There are some tips that you can apply to decrease the risk of contamination:
Insist on washing hands especially after playing outside in the garden or after coming from school/nursery and before any contact with food.
Keep your child’s nails away from his mouth.
Keep bathroom surfaces clean and hygienic.
Keep your kitchen surfaces clean especially where you prepare food. Clean after contact with raw meat or poultry.
Wash very well fruits and vegetables under running water.
Teach your child to never drink from springs, lakes or taps.
When diarrhea occurs, continue to feed your baby in small amount.
Give more liquids to replace the lost ones.
Use an ORS (Oral rehydration solution) under medical prescription.
Avoid sugary food as fruit juice or sweetened tea, fat food and milk products. You can offer your child some blended food as boiled potatoes, starch, cooked carrots, steamed rice and toast.
Always remember that diarrhea is common between kids. The most important is to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Call your doctor if your child shows signs of dehydration, fever or blood in the stool. He might need in this case medication.