Ravina Sewani

Diarrhoea is the body's way of ridding itself of germs, and most episodes last a few days to a week. Diarrhoea can be of sudden onset and lasting for less than two weeks (acute) or persistent (chronic). The main risk is lack of fluid in the body (dehydration). Once any dehydration is treated with drinks, encourage your child to eat as normally as possible. Causes:<ul><li>Bacterial infection</li><li>Viral infection</li><li>Trouble digesting certain things (food intolerance)</li><li>Food allergy</li><li>Parasites that enter the body through food or water</li><li>Reaction to medicines</li><li>An intestinal disease</li><li>Surgery on the stomach or gallbladder</li><li>Traveller's diarrhoea, this is caused by having food or water that is not safe because of bacteria, viruses, or parasites after a visit to a different country.</li></ul> Symptoms:<ul><li>Cramping</li><li>Belly (abdominal) pain</li><li>Swelling (bloating)</li><li>Upset stomach (nausea)</li><li>Urgent need to use the bathroom</li><li>Fever</li><li>Bloody stools</li><li>Loss of body fluids (dehydration)</li></ul> Signs of dehydration:<ul><li>Dizziness and light-headedness</li><li>Dry, sticky mouth</li><li>Dark yellow urine, or very little or no urine</li><li>Few or no tears when crying</li><li>Cool, dry skin</li><li>Lack of energy</li></ul> Diagnosis:<ul><li>Your child’s doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. The doctor might ask for a few tests to be done like:&nbsp;</li><li>A stool check</li><li>Blood test</li><li>Tests to check for food intolerance or allergies</li></ul> When to call a doctor:<ul><li>Is too weak to stand up</li><li>Is confused or dizzy</li><li>Has had diarrhoea more than three days</li><li>Is younger than 6 months old</li><li>Is vomiting bloody green or yellow fluid</li><li>Has a persistent fever</li><li>Has bloody stool</li><li>Has a rash</li></ul> Treatment:<ul><li>In most cases, treatment includes replacing lost fluids. Antibiotics may be prescribed when bacterial infections are the cause.</li><li>Offer electrolyte and glucose drinks. These fluids have the right balance of water, sugar, and salts. Some are available as popsicles.</li><li>Avoid juice or soda as they may make diarrhoea worse.</li><li>Keep breastfeeding your baby. Breastfed babies often have less diarrhoea.</li></ul> Prevention:<ul><li>Wash your hands properly before handling your child.</li><li>Timely get your child vaccinated.</li></ul>

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