Duke Medicine: Too much No. 2? When to worry
When should you worry about your child's diarrhea? Dr. Leon Reinstein of Duke Children's has some answers.
Posted — UpdatedDiarrhea is an increase in the number of bowel movements per day and an increase in the looseness of stools. Mild diarrhea may vary from one to three stools a day; severe diarrhea can consist of up to 20 stools a day.
In general, diarrhea is a common problem that may last only a few days and disappear on its own. It's usually related to a viral or bacterial gastroenteritis, an infection causing diarrhea, abdominal cramping, vomiting and fever.
Administration of anti-diarrhea medication is strongly discouraged. Antibiotics are used only in specific infections.
It is important to maintain oral hydration and a regular diet as much as possible. Avoid sodas or sports drinks. Give Pedialyte or Gatorade as alternatives.
Infant and children at times may require an admission to the hospital if unable to maintain adequate oral intake.
Related Topics
Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
