Diarrhea ranks as the second most common childhood illness after respiratory diseases. However, parents often underestimate its severity, dismissing it as a minor ailment that will resolve on its own. In reality, diarrhea not only damages the child's digestive tract but also impedes growth and development.
When babies have diarrhea, parents often underestimate its severity, dismissing it as a minor illness that will pass on its own. In reality, diarrhea damages not only the child's digestive tract but also impedes growth and development. Some parents, conversely, overreact by aggressively boosting the child's nutrition during an episode, which can actually hinder recovery.■Diarrhea in Children Affects More Than Just the Intestines
Mild diarrhea is relatively short-lived with fewer episodes. Its immediate effects on children include decreased appetite, abdominal discomfort, pain, or vomiting, and may cause intermittent crying. Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and even liver or kidney damage.Certain viral diarrhea strains can trigger myocarditis, seizures, or even encephalitis.
Chronic diarrhea poses greater long-term risks, including malnutrition and anemia. Malnutrition weakens immunity, increasing susceptibility to secondary infections.The most common long-term consequence is delayed growth and development, significantly impacting both cognitive and physical maturation. Affected children become highly susceptible to bacterial or viral infections, which are difficult to resolve, creating a vicious cycle. ■ Three Essential Actions for Parents When Their Child Has Diarrhea Beyond active medical treatment, home care is crucial after childhood diarrhea.At the meeting, experts shared the most crucial actions parents should take after their child experiences diarrhea.
Avoid Overfeeding Nutritious Foods
Some parents go to great lengths to feed their children high-fat, high-protein foods like chocolate, milk, and eggs, hoping to compensate for the losses caused by diarrhea. However, this approach actually increases the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, prolonging the duration of diarrhea.Instead, offer easily digestible foods like rice water or sugar-salt solution. Temporary fasting may also be necessary to allow the digestive system to rest and recover, accelerating recovery.
Keep the abdomen warm
Children's abdomens are susceptible to cold. For those with diarrhea, already accelerated intestinal motility can worsen if the abdomen becomes chilled, further aggravating the condition.
Protect the child's bottom
Frequent bowel movements inevitably cause varying degrees of damage to the skin and mucous membranes around the anus. Parents should pay special attention to this area during care. After bowel movements, gently wipe with soft tissue paper or lightly wash with soft gauze dipped in water. Apply a petroleum-based ointment afterward to prevent diaper rash.For infants, diapers should be changed promptly to prevent friction from soiled diapers causing skin breakdown. All soiled diapers, bedding, clothing, and bedsheets used by the child must be washed and disinfected immediately to avoid reinfection or transmission to others.
Of course, preventing childhood diarrhea is key. Beyond ensuring food safety, oral vaccines can also help prevent its occurrence.