Diarrhea in Kids: Signs, Treatment, and More

Diarrhea is a common problem in kids and is primarily caused by infections, food intolerances, and digestive issues. Though occasional loose stools are normal, frequent watery stools eventually lead to dehydration and other concerns. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diarrhea is one of the leading causes of illness in children under five, accounting for about 525,000 deaths globally each year. Yes, that’s a whopping number.

Read below this article to explore the signs, causes, and treatments of diarrhea in kids.

Diarrhea is usually defined as three or more loose or watery stools in a day. Other common symptoms that may accompany diarrhea include:

Dehydration is the most concerning sign of diarrhea, especially in younger kids. Here are the common signs of dehydration in kids you can look for:

However, if your child shows severe dehydration symptoms, including extreme fatigue, a sunken soft spot in infants, and difficulty waking up, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

Here are some of the potential causes behind diarrhea in kids.

Viruses such as rotavirus and norovirus are the leading causes of diarrhea in children. In fact, rotavirus alone is responsible for about 40 percent of hospitalizations due to diarrhea in children under five, according to the CDC.

Bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Shigella can also cause foodborne diarrhea, which often leads to severe abdominal cramps, fever, and bloody stools.

Some children, however, may develop diarrhea due to lactose intolerance or food allergies, including gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Certain antibiotics may also interfere with the balance of healthy gut bacteria, which ultimately results in antibiotic-related diarrhea.

Last but not least, drinking unclean water or consuming improperly cooked food may also introduce harmful bacteria and parasites into the digestive system, leading to diarrhea.

Most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own within a few days. Despite this, it is important to ensure proper care to prevent dehydration and promote recovery. Here are a few helpful tips to treat diarrhea in kids.

Offering oral rehydration solutions (ORS) such as Pedialyte can help replace lost fluids and electrolytes. However, avoid fruit juices, soft drinks, or sports drinks, as they can worsen diarrhea. For infants, breastfeeding or formula feeding should continue.

Easily digestible foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet), along with plain crackers or boiled potatoes, can significantly help treat diarrhea in kids. However, make sure to avoid greasy, spicy, or sugary foods that can irritate the stomach.

Did you know that probiotics help restore gut bacteria and reduce the duration of diarrhea? Yes, according to studies, probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG can shorten diarrhea by up to one day.

Antibiotics may be needed if diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection, as prescribed by the doctor. However, note that anti-diarrheal medications are not recommended for young children unless prescribed by a doctor.

Here are some signs that may indicate you need to seek medical help for your child if he

Diarrhea is a common but manageable condition in children. While most cases resolve on their own, staying hydrated, offering a bland diet, and maintaining hygiene are key to recovery. In severe cases, seeking medical attention promptly can prevent complications like dehydration.