Question
A child had previously suffered from viral gastroenteritis and received various Western medications during the illness. After the condition improved, the child’s appetite was robust, with the ability to consume four bowls of rice daily, four times a day, and this situation persisted for about two weeks. However, afterward, there was a sudden onset of reduced appetite and recurring diarrhea, prompting the parents to seek solutions.
Answer
If a child has been experiencing such symptoms for a long time, it is advisable to consider the possibility of weak spleen and stomach; if the symptoms appeared recently, acute gastroenteritis may be more likely. If severe vomiting occurs, it is recommended to temporarily refrain from eating for four to six hours, avoiding the use of any medication during this period to allow the stomach to rest adequately. If thirst is unbearable, a small amount of ginger-sugar water can be taken to warm and stop vomiting. If drinking water does not cause vomiting, water can be replenished in small amounts over time, avoiding large amounts of water all at once to stimulate the gastrointestinal tract. After the child stops vomiting, gradually increase the amount of food consumed until normal eating habits are restored.