Unusually loose or watery stools that occur at least three times within a 24-hour time frame is called diarrhoea. The most characteristic feature of diarrhoea is a recent change in consistency (degree of firmness) of the stool. In diarrhoea, the stool is loose or watery, which can cause dehydration and disturbances of electrolytes (salts) in the body. Diarrhoea is diagnosed, when the consistency and frequency of stool become different from what the child normally experiences.

Causes

• • Viral infection


• • Bacterial or parasitic infections


• • Reactions to medicines


• • Allergy or intolerance to certain foods


• • Disorders of intestines

Risk Factors

• • Poor sanitation and hygiene


• • Lack of safe drinking water


• • Improper hand hygiene, while preparing the food or feeding the child


• • Leaving the cooked food uncovered


• • Using unclean utensils


• • Bottle feeding


• • Consumption of unpasteurized milk or unhygienic street food


• • Improper disposal of excreta


• • Initiating semisolid foods or top milk before 6 months of age



The most likely route of entry of infection remains through the oral cavity/mouth

HOW TO PREPARE ORS?

Give Oral rehydration salt solution (ORS) slowly with a spoon or in small sips. It may cause vomiting if given rapidly from a glass/cup/tumbler. Give it more slowly at the rate of one teaspoon every 1–2 minutes if the child vomits while drinking. Consume ORS within 24 hours of preparation. Discard any remaining ORS and freshly prepare for the next use. ORS will NOT CURE DIARRHEA, which usually gets better on its own in 3–7 days in most cases. However, it prevents and treats the dehydration.

When to see your paediatrician

• • Reduced frequency or quantity of urine


• • Feeling very thirsty or restless


• • Looking more ill


• • Vomiting everything


• • Blood in stool


• • Inability to drink or breastfeed


• • Cold extremities


• • Improper disposal of excreta


• • Change in responsiveness (drowsy or lethargy)

Milk or food intake should not be restricted after diarrhoea. Children who continue feeding tend to recover more quickly and regain weight better when they recover than children whose diet is restricted. meals should be given more frequently and in small amounts TO HELP WITH easy digestion and also reduce the risk of vomiting. Breastfeeding should be continued. Best options other than breastfeeding include gruel from rice, pulses, or other cereals that can be easily prepared at home.