Does your little one have a constant stomachache? Do you have to change the nappy again within a few minutes? As a parent, it's normal for you to feel very scared and worried when your baby is in a lot of pain and crying. But don't worry. Stomachache, or 'diarrhea' as we usually call it, is very common for young children. The most important thing is to know exactly what to do at this time and when to see a doctor. We'll talk about that today.
What are the main reasons why children get upset stomachs?
Simply put, diarrhea is the body's attempt to quickly get rid of a germ or unwanted substance that has entered the body. It's like a defense mechanism in our body. This condition can last from a few days to about a week. Along with diarrhea, things like fever, vomiting, stomach ache, and body aches can also occur.
There are several main reasons why young children get upset stomachs:
- Viral infections: This is the most common cause. Especially viral gastroenteritis, which is caused by a virus such as rotavirus, is the main cause. During this time, the stomach becomes watery and may be accompanied by vomiting, stomach pain, headache, and fever.
- Bacterial and parasitic infections: Bacteria such as Salmonella or parasites such as Giardia can also cause diarrhea. Although these are not as common as viruses, they can be transmitted through contaminated water or food.
- Medications: Some medications, especially antibiotics, can cause diarrhea. Because while antibiotics kill bad bacteria, they also kill the good, necessary bacteria in our intestines. This can upset the balance of the intestines and cause diarrhea.
- Food Poisoning: Eating spoiled or contaminated food can quickly cause nausea and vomiting due to the germs in it. However, this condition usually subsides within 24 hours.
- Other medical conditions: Very rarely, chronic medical conditions such as Irritable Bowel Disease, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis , food allergies, or Celiac Disease can also cause persistent bloating.
How to treat at home? The most important thing is to avoid dehydration!
The biggest concern when a child has diarrhea is dehydration , which is the loss of water and essential salts from the body. This is the most dangerous complication. Therefore, our main goal should be to prevent dehydration by providing the child with enough fluids.
Remember, just giving plain water is not enough to rehydrate a young child. Because when the stomach is empty, not only water is lost from the body, but also essential salts like sodium and potassium.
So what should we do?
- Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS): This is the best and safest option. You can buy a packet of ORS from a pharmacy, dilute it with boiled water as directed, and give it to your child little by little. Since ORS contains the right amount of salts and sugars needed by the body, the body absorbs them quickly and stops dehydration.
- For breastfed babies: If you are breastfeeding, do not stop breastfeeding for any reason. Continue to breastfeed as usual. If your doctor advises, give Jeevani solution in small amounts in between.
- For older children: It is best to give Jeevani. In addition, you can give the child any liquid he likes (without sugar). Things like porridge, soups, and orange juice are good. If he is vomiting, do not give him a lot at once. Give him a little bit every 5 minutes, about a teaspoon. Sucking on ice packs (popsicles) is also a good way to give him fluids.
- If you have an upset stomach due to antibiotics: Do not stop taking the antibiotic course prescribed by your doctor. Call your doctor immediately and explain the situation. He or she may reduce the dose, suggest a change in diet, or recommend taking a probiotic (like yogurt).
Warning signs of dehydration - pay special attention to these!
There are several signs that your child may be dehydrated. If you see any of these, don't ignore it.
- Dry, sticky mouth and lips
- When you cry, you almost don't have any tears left.
- Sunken-looking eyes
- Urinating less often than usual (if the diaper is not wet for 6-8 hours)
- Urine turns dark yellow or brown
- Feeling lethargic, sleepy, and less active
- Skin feels cold and dry to the touch
- Dizziness and blue eyes
If these symptoms are seen, it means that the child needs immediate medical attention.
When should you see a doctor immediately?
Although most cases of diarrhea resolve within a few days, some cases can be very serious. If your child has any of the following conditions, seek medical advice without delay.
| Special cases to pay attention to | |
|---|---|
| Condition/symptom | Description / What to do |
| Go to a hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. |
|
| Call your doctor immediately. | |
Important: If your baby is under 6 months old and has a fever, do not give any fever-reducing medicine without first consulting a doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Diarrhea is very common in young children, so don't be unnecessarily alarmed.
- Your main concern should be to prevent dehydration in your child. The best way to do this is to give oral rehydration solution (ORS) .
- Always be aware of the warning signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, crying without tears, and decreased urination.
- If your child has blood in their stool, is vomiting profusely, is too weak to stand up, or shows other dangerous symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
- Never give your child any medication to stop diarrhea without consulting a doctor.
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