Treat diarrhea in children - Christina Cherry

With children is this Risk of dehydration is particularly high. Violent diarrhea can lead to dehydration (dehydration) in children faster than in adults. at small It is therefore particularly important for diarrhea patients to quickly compensate for fluid and electrolyte losses. In addition, suitable diarrhea agents from the pharmacy can be helpful for the respective age group. The pediatrician should always be notified, especially for infants and toddlers, because large losses of water and blood salts can quickly become a threat to them.

children & Diarrhea:
Liquid and electrolytes are now important

If your child has diarrhea, make sure you have enough fluids and electrolytes to help make up for the loss as quickly as possible. Suitable drinks include still mineral water or unsweetened chamomile or fennel tea. Broths also provide more liquid and electrolytes. In addition, special glucose electrolyte solutions are available in the pharmacy, which contain the necessary nutrients in an optimal mixing ratio. Infants should definitely continue breastfeeding, in addition, the addition of water or thin chamomile or fennel tea may be advisable. Talk to your pediatrician about this.

A lack of fluids can be noticed, for example, by dark urine, fatigue and dry lips. A doctor should be informed of such signs.

Anti-diarrhea medication in children

Various over-the-counter medications are available in the pharmacy that can be used for diarrhea.

However, not all diarrhea remedies are also suitable for children.

Agents that slow down bowel movements and thus stop diarrhea are generally only approved for older children and may only be used after consultation with the pediatrician or pharmacist. They calm the intestine, so to speak, so that the excretion of pathogens is impaired – but this is an important self-cleaning mechanism and important for recovery.

However, there are also diarrhea medications that do not impair the natural movement of the intestine and also promote the elimination of the pathogens.

Important: Always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before giving your child medication.

Diarrhea in the child – what else helps

In the event of diarrhea, the gastrointestinal tract should not be subjected to additional stress – it is therefore a matter of eating gently. For example, rusks, rice, boiled carrots or dry white bread are suitable. Many little patients are now happy about a mashed banana or a grated apple.

Chamomile or peppermint tea have a beneficial effect and provide an extra amount of liquid. Yogurt, pudding and cocoa, however, are not recommended – dairy products should be avoided if you have diarrhea. Small diarrhea patients should also stay away from cola and pretzel sticks, because too much salt, sugar and carbon dioxide can cause unnecessary turbulence in the intestine.

Important: In most cases, diarrheal diseases in children are caused by viruses. If diarrhea occurs again and again, clarification by the pediatrician is important. Because then, for example, food intolerance could be the trigger.