Further Reading

What do parents need to know about diarrhea and dehydration?

by Lyndsey M. Carlson, RPA-C

A: Most of the time, childhood diarrhea is caused by viruses. In the case of virus-causing diarrhea, many children get better and return to their normal activity level within a week to 10 days. 

If a child is suffering from viral diarrhea, some additional symptoms that parents may see include abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite. The child may not look ill but may not feel 100%. It is not uncommon for the child to continue to have loose stools for an additional couple of days after the fever and vomiting resolve. The loose stool should not be of concern as long as the child is taking in adequate fluid and food. Diarrhea can be divided into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe. 

Mild Diarrhea: If your child is experiencing mild diarrhea (between 1-4 episodes in 24 hours), he or she can continue breastfeeding, but milk and dairy products should be avoided. Increasing clear fluids in the diet will help to make up for the lack of milk intake. Sugary drinks, such as juice and pop, should also be avoided. Following a bland or BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, dry toast) is also recommended.

Moderate Diarrhea: Children experiencing moderate diarrhea (between 5-9 episodes in 24 hours), can typically be cared for at home. The amount of fluid the child should consume is 3-5 sips of Pedialyte, water, or Gatorade every 30 minutes to stay hydrated. Again, milk products can worsen diarrhea, so patients should avoid dairy. However, if the infant or child is breastfeeding, that may continue.

Severe Diarrhea: Most times, severe diarrhea (more than 10 episodes in 24 hours) can also be managed effectively at home by increasing clear fluids in the diet and avoiding milk and dairy. Offering bland foods and the BRAT diet is still recommended. Keeping an eye out for symptoms of dehydration is also warranted. Symptoms of dehydration or reasons to call your doctor include:

  • Blood in stool
  • Fever higher than 102° F
  • Frequent vomiting
  • Urinating less frequently
  • No tears when crying
  • Not drinking any liquids
  • Dry, sticky mouth and lips
  • Weight loss
  • Sunken eyes
  • Extreme thirst
  • Dramatic change in child’s behavior, with increasing lethargy

Immediately call your child’s provider if you see any of the above symptoms. They will advise you if the child needs IV fluids in the emergency department. Do not give your child any anti-diarrhea medications unless recommended by the provider.