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Diarrheal Diseases in Children

Diarrhea is one of the most common health problems affecting children, especially under the age of five. While most cases are mild and resolve on their own, persistent or severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other serious complications. Early diagnosis and expert care are essential to ensure your child’s healthy recovery.

 

What is Diarrhea?

Diarrhea refers to frequent, loose, or watery stools occurring more than three times in a day. It may be accompanied by symptoms like abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, or loss of appetite.

 

Types of Diarrhea in Children

Acute Diarrhea: Lasts a few days, usually caused by viral or bacterial infections.

Persistent Diarrhea: Lasts more than 14 days and may be linked to underlying digestive issues or infections.

Chronic Diarrhea: Ongoing for weeks or months, often related to food intolerances, allergies, or inflammatory bowel conditions.

 

Common Causes

Viral Infections (e.g., Rotavirus, Norovirus)

Bacterial Infections (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella)

Parasitic Infections

Food Intolerances (like lactose intolerance)

Malabsorption Syndromes (e.g., celiac disease)

Antibiotic Use

Poor hygiene or contaminated food/water

 

When to See a Pediatric Gastroenterologist?

Seek medical attention if your child shows:

Diarrhea lasting more than 2-3 days

Blood or mucus in stools

High fever

Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, sunken eyes)

Weight loss or poor growth

Recurrent episodes of diarrhea

 

Diagnosis & Treatment

At our clinic, we use a comprehensive approach:

Detailed medical history & physical exam

Stool tests, blood tests, and allergy screening

 

Nutritional assessment

Customized treatment plans, including:

Oral rehydration therapy

Probiotics

Dietary modifications

Medications (only when needed)

Preventive Tips for Parents

Ensure proper hand hygiene

Use safe drinking water

Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly

Avoid street food for toddlers

Keep up with child’s vaccination schedule (especially rotavirus)

 

Why Choose Dr. Jayati Agrawal?

With specialized training in pediatric gastroenterology, Dr. Jayati Agrawal combines compassion with clinical expertise to offer accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans tailored to your child’s needs.