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DIARRHEA
Diarrhea is the sudden increase in the frequency and looseness of bowel movements. The best indicator of the severity of the diarrhea is its frequency. Diarrhea is usually caused by a viral infection of the intestines which may last up to 5-7 days. Dietary changes are the mainstay of therapy with the main goal being the prevention of dehydration.
You should call our office at once:
- If your child does not urinate in more than eight (8) hours;
- If crying produces no tears;
- If the mouth is dry and sticky;
- Any blood appears in the bowel movements;
- If severe cramps occur, or
- If your child appears ill.
If these situations apply call 345-3133 for immediate assistance.
For treatment of diarrhea, we recommend that for every large loose stool you give your child two (2) ounces of an electrolyte solution for every 10 pounds of weight. Examples of these solutions include Pedialyte and Kao Lectrolyte. Again, the amount is two (2) ounces for every 10 pounds of body weight. Your child’s routine diet can be otherwise continued with the exception of fatty foods and foods high in simple sugars such as juices and soft drinks. Contrary to previous beliefs, regular milk and cow milk based formulas can be continued for almost all people with diarrhea. As your child’s diarrhea improves, they may resume a normal diet.
Call during office hours:
- If mucous appears in the bowel movement;
- If a fever of more than 102 is present;
- If the diarrhea has lasted 48 hours without improving;
- If your child is three months of age or younger, or
- If there are more than six bowel movements in a 24 hour period.
This advice on diarrhea is presented as general information and is not meant to be specific treatment for your child’s medical problem. If you need further assistance, call 855-9160 during regular office hours to speak with one of our Health Information Nurses.