Most children will have an occasional episode of diarrhea - it usually improves in a few days without making a change in the diet or giving medications. Antidiarrheal medications are not recommended for young children and may be harmful. While most episodes of diarrhea will go away in a few days, the main risk of diarrhea is dehydration. Your goal in caring for your child is to provide comfort and prevent dehydration.
• Continue giving breast milk or formula
• Avoid foods that cause loose stools, such as fruit and fruit juices
• Continue your child's usual diet and increase fluids. Commercially prepared oral rehydration solutions such as PedialyteÆ, RicelyteÆ or other generic brands will help. For older children, you may substitute a solution of half GatoradeÆ and half water.
Preventive Measures
• Good hand washing is the most important prevention for your child as well as any caregiver - teach your child to wash his or her hands after using the toilet and before eating
• Limit the amount of sweetened beverages and juices your child drinks
• Feed your child yogurt when taking an antibiotic
• Cook all foods thoroughly and refrigerate all uncooked foods and leftovers immediately
• Thoroughly clean all work surfaces before and after food preparation.
• Most episodes of diarrhea will resolve gradually as long as you take steps to prevent dehydration. If you have concerns about your child's condition, please call your physician.
source : Sisters of Mercy Health System
