What is diarrhoea?
Diarrhoea, also known as frequently recurring, loose, watery stools, is a common problem in children, as their digestive system is not yet well developed. It usually occurs when the intestine or colon becomes irritated; the reaction means that the body is ridding itself of foreign substances. It tends to last no more than three days. Diarrhoea can cause dehydration, which can be particularly dangerous in children, so it is important that they receive lots of fluid to avoid its onset.
What causes it?
Viruses are responsible for common cases of diarrhoea. They work by attaching themselves to the child's intestinal tract, causing inflammation of the intestinal walls. This forces the cells lining the intestines to start releasing fluids, which in turn causes the intestines to contract, resulting in the release of loose, watery stools. The common causes are:
- Micro-organisms. Viruses, fungi, bacteria and protozoa can be passed on from child to child, or from water or food that is contaminated.
- Food allergies. If a child experiences an allergic reaction to a type of food or drink, this might manifest in the form of diarrhoea. Introducing new foods can sometimes cause a reaction. Children can also become allergic to a food they have been having for a long time.
- Gastro-intestinal disorders. Irritable bowel syndrome or an inherited birth defect such as cystic fibrosis can be factors. In children, irritable bowel syndrome is sometimes labelled as 'toddlers' diarrhoea'.
- Cordial or fruit juice that is drunk in large quantities can cause loose stools.
- In rare cases, pets can be responsible for spreading infection.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Diarrhoea in children can cause all types of symptoms, including:
- Vomiting
- Poor appetite
- High temperature of 38*C or more
- Abdominal pain
- Lethargy.
If a child is experiencing diarrhoea in conjunction with the above symptoms it could indicate gastro-enteritis, in which case you should consult a doctor within 12 hours. Medical help should also be sought if the child is excreting pus or blood.
Preventative action
- The most effective prevention is to teach children good hand washing before eating and after using the bathroom or playing with pets.
- Check whether children have any known food allergies and avoid including them in your setting's food plan.
- Good kitchen hygiene is vital.
- In the UK, tap water is generally of a high standard, but drinking bottled water is advisable when abroad.
Home treatment
When a child has diarrhoea a lot of body fluids will be lost, which can result in dehydration. It is therefore important to ensure the child receives plenty of fluids to replace them. Have the child take frequent small sips of water or diluted clear fluids.
If the child is also vomiting, especially after drinking water, then it is best to offer an ice cube afterwards. Or give the child a few sips of flat Coke every ten or 15 minutes. Avoid giving the child any raw fruit or vegetables or spicy or fatty foods, as this can cause stomach irritation.
If the diarrhoea is not severe, give the child pure liquids for the first six to 24 hours and then introduce bland foods like bananas and dry toast.
Give the child an oral rehydration solution such as Dioralyte to help replace lost water and salts. These can be purchased without prescription. An alternative to this for older children is flat Coke.
What are the signs of dehydration?
- Weakness
- Thirst
- Very yellow/concentrated urine
- Dry mouth and skin
- Very infrequent wet nappies
- Irritability.
When should I call a doctor?
If the child is not experiencing any painful cramps and appears alert, you can generally assume that the body is fighting the cause. The diarrhoea should gradually disappear if you are taking the appropriate measures to prevent dehydration. But if the problem persists for more than a week and worsening symptoms appear, contact a doctor immediately.
