VOMITING AND DIARRHEA IN CHILDREN

In children, vomiting and diarrhea can be common issues, causing concern for parents. The most common causes underlying these episodes are:

• Gastroenteritis: Intestinal inflammation caused by an infection from viruses, bacteria, or parasites that can enter the body through the consumption of contaminated water and/or food. Intestinal inflammation caused by an infection from viruses, bacteria, or parasites that can enter the body through the consumption of contaminated water and/or food
  
• Food poisoning: consumption of foods containing toxins produced by microorganisms, leading to the onset of symptoms shortly after their ingestion.
• Side effect of antibiotic use: Disruption of the intestinal flora, occasionally leading to diarrhea. 

Depending on the cause, other symptoms may arise, such as nausea, fever, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, severe cramps, weight loss, weakness, and general discomfort. It is crucial to identify the cause to initiate the most appropriate treatment.

In both scenarios, it is recommended to maintain a light and easily digestible diet, with a focus on cooked foods. Avoiding the intake of raw foods and those rich in fiber or fats is also advised, as they can exacerbate intestinal irritation and worsen diarrhea and vomiting. Some recommended choices include cooked rice with carrots, white meats such as turkey or chicken, steamed fish, and peeled or cooked fruits like apple, pear, or banana.

Usually, diarrhea is self-limiting and of short duration. It is important to ensure a continuous intake of fluids to prevent water and mineral salt loss and subsequent dehydration. If diarrheal episodes and vomiting are very frequent, the use of oral rehydration solutions to correct the loss of fluids and electrolytes. 

A doctor should be consulted if the situation worsens within 48 hours or does not improve with the previously mentioned measures. Persistent diarrhea may be a sign of another pathology, and its cause should always be evaluated.

In the case of food poisoning, it is crucial for the toxin to be eliminated from the body, which occurs through the excretion of feces. In some instances, the use of antibiotics may be necessary and should be prescribed by a doctor if deemed necessary.

Furthermore, it may also be advantageous to increase the consumption of probiotic-rich foods/supplements, in order to reinforce the bacterial flora, thus improving intestinal function and alleviating the episode of diarrhea.

Look after yourself, look after your health and CHOOSE A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE! For more information click here.

Anabela Claro