Most cases of diarrhea (runny or watery bowel movements) are caused by a viral infection in the intestines (bowels). Diarrhea usually is not a sign of a serious illness, but it can make kids lose fluids, salts, and minerals. If your child has diarrhea, it's important to make sure fluids and nutrients are replaced.
Depending on the amount of fluid lost and how severe the diarrhea is, your doctor will suggest that you:
Do not offer plain water to infants — it doesn't have enough sodium and other minerals. Avoid apple juice and other sweet drinks because they may make diarrhea worse.
Make sure kids wash their hands well and often to avoid infections from germs that can cause diarrhea. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating. Refrigerate meats as soon as possible after buying them and cook them until they're no longer pink.
Reviewed by: Melanie L. Pitone, MD
Date Reviewed: Jul 23, 2022
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