Diarrhea (Acute Gastroenteritis)

Causes

Diarrhea is typically caused by consuming contaminated food or water. Poor personal hygiene can also allow various bacteria and viruses to easily enter the body, leading to an intestinal infection.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include passing watery stools 3 or more times a day, abdominal cramps, fatigue, vomiting, fever, and body aches. In some cases, the stool may contain mucus or blood.

Treatment

If the child has a fever, administer antipyretics such as Paracetamol and provide cool sponge baths. To prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, the child must be given Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) or intravenous (IV) fluids as determined by a physician.

Prevention

1. Ensure children do not consume raw or undercooked food, or food that has been exposed to flies.
2. Store food in a refrigerator and always reheat it thoroughly before serving.
3. Wash fresh fruits and vegetables multiple times with clean water before consumption.
4. Properly dispose of waste to prevent the breeding of flies.
5. Encourage frequent handwashing before and after meals.
6. Use serving spoons (communal spoons) for shared dishes.

Critical Warning Signs: Seek Medical Attention Immediately If:

1. The child's symptoms do not improve, or the frequency of diarrhea increases, especially if blood or mucus is present.
2. A high fever persists.
3. Persistent or severe vomiting occurs.
4. The stool is black or tarry (like charcoal).
5. The child shows signs of **severe dehydration**, such as:
   • Decreased urination (dry diapers).
   • Crying without tears.
   • Very dry mouth and parched lips.
   • Sunken eyes.
   • Rapid pulse or lethargy.