Question
What should be done when a child develops diarrhea?
Answer
When a child exhibits symptoms of diarrhea, parents should closely monitor the child’s physical condition, including the frequency and appearance of stools, as well as the child’s mental state, appetite, and urine output. If the child shows any of the following symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly:
- Frequent nausea and vomiting, increased frequency of stools, large amounts of stool, which may appear watery or like egg white soup, and sometimes with blood;
- Decreased urine output, dry mouth and tongue, sunken eyes, poor skin elasticity, and lack of tears when crying, indicating dehydration;
- High fever that does not subside, listlessness, irritability, and even seizures. Before seeking medical attention, parents can take the following measures:
- Ensure the child receives adequate hydration by providing oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration;
- Feed the child easily digestible foods such as congee or noodles and avoid fatty, cold, or spicy foods;
- When using diapers, pay attention to cleanliness and dryness to prevent redness;
- If the diarrhea is caused by rotavirus, give the child specific oral rehydration salts and pay attention to isolation and disinfection to prevent cross-infection. After seeking medical treatment, follow the doctor’s diagnosis and treatment plan to administer medication appropriately to the child and pay attention to follow-up visits and observations.