If your child remains somewhat active, stays hydrated and has a fever under 102 degrees, then chances are good that the infection causing the diarrhea will clear up on its own.
Diarrhea – loose, watery and more frequent bowel movements – is a common problem in kids. Dr. Corey Scherer, Akron Children’s pediatric gastroenterologist, shares his expertise on at-home treatment and when to seek medical care.
What causes diarrhea?
Many things can cause it. Infection is one of the most common causes and can be from a virus, bacteria or parasite. Most often infectious causes will resolve on their own, but some bacterial or parasitic infections may need antibiotics.
Diarrhea can also be a symptom of other conditions including:
- Food intolerances.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
- Inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis.
- Celiac disease.
If one of my kids has diarrhea, how can I keep my other kids from getting it?
If your child has diarrhea from an infection, it is likely contagious. You can reduce the likelihood of spread with good hand-washing and trying to keep everything clean. You don’t have to completely quarantine the child who has diarrhea, but it does help to maintain some space between them and your other kids.
How do I know if my child has an infection or something more serious?
That’s going to vary by the child’s age, but there are some signs to look for. If your child remains somewhat active, stays hydrated and has a fever under 102 degrees, then chances are good that the infection will clear up on its own.
Dr. Corey Scherer
What are some possible complications if my child has diarrhea?
A lot depends on the severity, but:
- Younger kids may have diaper rash.
- Kids of all ages could be dehydrated.
- If it is not infection, but a long-term condition, then growth might be impacted.
- Bloody diarrhea could cause kids to become anemic (decrease in hemoglobin), and they may need emergency care.
What are signs of dehydration?
Warning signs can include:
- Crying with fewer tears or none at all.
- Dry mouth and tongue.
- Going pee less frequently: fewer than four to six wet diapers or trips to the bathroom each day.
- Unusual crankiness or sleepiness.
- Low energy.
Is water the best way to hydrate my child?
If you have a baby, keep breastfeeding or giving them formula or try Pedialyte®. Do not give plain water to babies.
Toddlers and older kids can have small, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration product like a sports drink.
Is over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medicine OK for kids?
In general, we don’t recommend anti-diarrhea medicine for pediatric patients. There are some instances, such as after certain surgeries, when we may use Imodium.
If my child has diarrhea and needs to be seen by a doctor, should I start with their pediatrician?
It depends. If you feel like something severe is happening, then take your child to the emergency room. Otherwise, go to your child’s primary care provider. They may be able to take care of the problem – or refer you to a gastrointestinal specialist if needed.
If I bring my child in for medical care, what’s important for the provider to know?
Knowing the answers to these questions will help the provider clarify what’s happening with your child:
- When did the diarrhea start?
- How many bowel movements does your child have within a 24-hour period?
- How many times per day do they urinate?
- Do you see blood in the stool? If so, is it in the toilet or with wiping? Is it a streak, dot or larger volume that turns the toilet red?
- Does anyone else in your house – or at school, camp, daycare – have symptoms?
What else would you like to share?
Sometimes, there’s confusion about whether a child has diarrhea or constipation. A parent sees their child’s soiled underwear, or a child uses the restroom frequently. Initially, there might be concern for diarrhea, but it’s actually the leaking of stool from constipation. That happens more than you might think.
Learn about our gastroenterology services.
