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Gastroenteritis is a condition which affects
people of all ages including children, with children being more susceptible
to having diarrhoea due to other conditions than adults are and this is
normally down to poor hygiene conditions.
Gastroenteritis is an illness which is more commonly called stomach flu
and which shows symptoms as diarrhoea and/or vomiting, there can also
be a fever associated with the illness and it can cause stomach pains
which vary in intensity. It is an infectious illness and it will usually
last in duration from anywhere between 2 to 4 days.
What is the cause of gastroenteritis?
Younger children who contract gastroenteritis are usually affected with
a virus known as rotavirus, although there are numerous viruses which
can cause the same symptoms of gastroenteritis. Less commonly, children
can get gastroenteritis from food poisoning and this usually occurs if
the child has eaten anything which has spoiled.
What problems can occur as a result of gastroenteritis?
The number one concern when anyone is suffering from this illness is that
they can quickly become dehydrated as a result of expelling more fluid
than they are taking in. Therefore, it is extremely important that even
though the child may not keep fluid inside that they do receive enough
fluid.
Is there any treatment for gastroenteritis?
Depending on the severity of the illness, most cases will clear up by
themselves providing the child is kept off solid food and enough fluids
are given to stop the child from becoming dehydrated. Liquids that the
Doctor will normally suggest are what are known as oral rehydration fluids
which contain the right amounts of salt and sugar which the body needs.
As a general rule, milk can continue to be taken as long as this doesn't
make the diarrhoea worse, and some Doctors now say that if the illness
is only moderate and the child is hungry then let them eat.
What are the symptoms or signs of dehydration?
Signs that your child is or is becoming dehydrated and which should be
acted on immediately are:
* A decrease in the need to urinate
* There are no tears when the child is crying
* A very dry or sticky mouth
* Weight loss
* Extreme thirst
If any of the signs or symptoms listed below applies to your child then
you should consult your Doctor immediately.
* Signs of dehydration listed above are present
* If the child is younger than six months of age
* There is any blood present in your child's stools
* The vomiting is frequent or its prevents them from keeping fluids down
* The diarrhoea lasts for more than a week
* There is a very high fever present or your child has severe abdominal
pains
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