Gastroenteritis or stomach flu is a common illness that many children acquire throughout the year. It is the irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestinal tract. This condition may cause abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, gastroenteritis can result in dehydration. Fluid replacement is the most important treatment for dehydration.
Common causes of gastroenteritis are viral infections, bacterial infections, food poisoning and food allergies. Gastroenteritis caused by infection is easily passed from one person to another. Hand washing is extremely important and should be done frequently, especially when preparing food and after bowel movements. The symptoms of gastroenteritis can include abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weakness, fever or chills, and dehydration. Vomiting and diarrhea are the body’s natural way of clearing the organism causing the irritation.
In most children, gastroenteritis is caused by rotavirus. The rotavirus season is usually during October through April. The incubation period is about two days, followed by about three days of active vomiting, after which there are approximately four to eight days of diarrhea. The diarrhea is often foul smelling and very frequent. Treatment for gastroenteritis includes hydration with electrolyte replacement solution and a BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Apple sauce, Toast). Most cases of gastroenteritis do not require medications or lab tests.
However, if your child’s diarrhea is prolonged, your pediatrician can send out your child’s stools to test for certain bacteria or rotavirus. If there are any signs of dehydration (dry skin, dry mouth, sunken eyes, no urination for over six hours, lack of tears), a visit to your pediatrician is recommended. A pediatrician should also be seen if your child has mucus or blood in stools, severe abdominal pain, or high fever.
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