Diarrhoea in Children
Overview
Diarrhoea is one of the most common childhood illnesses in India and a major cause of dehydration in children under five. It is usually caused by infections from viruses, bacteria, or parasites, and spreads easily through unsafe water, food, or poor hygiene. Most cases are mild, but some can become life-threatening if not treated quickly.
- Symptoms of Diarrhoea in Children
- Loose or watery stools (three or more in a day)
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever in some cases
- Loss of appetite
- Signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, dry mouth, reduced urine, unusual sleepiness)
When to See a Doctor
Call your pediatrician immediately if your child has:
- Blood in stools
- Persistent vomiting
- High fever
- Severe dehydration (no urine for 6–8 hours, very dry lips, drowsiness)
- Diarrhoea lasting more than 2–3 days
Causes and Risk Factors
- Viruses: Rotavirus is the most common cause in children
- Bacteria: E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrio cholerae
- Parasites: Giardia, Entamoeba
- Risk factors: Unsafe drinking water, poor sanitation, lack of breastfeeding, malnutrition
Diagnosis
At Ankura Hospitals, diagnosis may include:
- Physical exam and history of symptoms
- Stool test to check for infection
- Blood tests if dehydration is severe
Treatment Options
- Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS): The most important step to prevent dehydration
- Zinc supplements: Recommended for children to reduce severity and recurrence
- Antibiotics: Only if bacterial infection is confirmed
- Hospital care: IV fluids and monitoring for severe dehydration or persistent vomiting
Prevention & Home Care
- Ensure your child drinks safe, boiled, or filtered water
- Wash hands before meals and after toilet use
- Keep food covered and cooked properly
- Breastfeeding for infants under 6 months
- Complete rotavirus vaccination
- Give small, frequent sips of ORS if diarrhoea starts
Why Choose Ankura Hospitals
- Round-the-clock pediatric emergency services
- Dedicated pediatric gastroenterology specialists
- Level-3 NICU and PICU for critically ill children
- Safe, child-friendly environment with expert nursing care
- Gastroenteritis (Diarrhea & Vomiting) in Children
- Frequent Vomiting in Children
- Reflux / GERD in Children
- Constipation in Children
- Is My Baby’s Stool Normal? How to Identify Newborn Diarrhea
- Newborn Reflux / Spit-Ups
- Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Children
Frequently Asked Questions
Our healthcare specialists are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide you with the support you require. From consultation to diagnosis to treatments, our experts are dedicated to helping you.