Gastrointestinal
infections usually cause diarrhea a frequent and watery bowel
movements.
Causes
Parasites, viruses,
or bacteria can all cause diarrheal infections, which means
that a child can exhibit a variety of symptoms. The
rotavirus is probably the most common cause of diarrheal infections.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually
start with crampy, abdominal pain followed by diarrhea. This
usually lasts a few days but can last longer in some cases.
Preventive
Measure
Hand washing is
the most effective means of preventing diarrheal infections
that are passed from person to person. Dirty hands carry infectious
germs into the body when a person, or particularly a child,
bits his nails or puts any part of his hands into his mouth.
People should wash their hands frequently, especially after
using the toilet and before eating.
Treatment
The immediate goal
of treatment of all diarrheal illnesses is to maintain adequate
fluid intake. Infants and small children should not be rehydrated
with water alone because it does not contain adequate amounts
of sodium, potassium, and other important nutrients. Energy
Drinks can help provide those essential nutrients and balance
electrolytes.
See your doctor
immediately if the diarrhea lasts more than a few days or
if a patient seems to be dehydrated. Signs of dehydration
include dry lips and tongue, skin that is pale and dry, sunken
eyes, listlessness or decreased activity, and decreased urination.
