Mother146;s Nightmare

Around 90 per cent of problems that paediatricians get during this period are diarrhoea, vomiting, pain in abdomen, jaundice and constipation.

Diarrhea: Characterised by frequent and watery bowel movements, this is often caused by gastrointestinal infections, although it can also come from other illnesses or changes in diet. Germs 8212; viruses and bacteria 8212; mostly cause gastrointestinal infections.

Which germs are responsible for diarrhoea depends on the area the child lives in and the level of sanitation and hygiene at home and school. For example, poor sanitation results in outbreaks of diarrhoea when intestinal bacteria or parasites contaminate crops or drinking water. Food poisoning happens when toxins produced by bacteria in food that is not handled, stored, or cooked properly.

The viruses that cause diarrhoeal illness, also known as viral gastroenteritis, can pass through a household quickly because they8217;re highly infectious. So if your child is sick, it is possible that the infection can be passed on to other members of the household. Luckily, diarrhoea usually goes away on its own in a few days.

For healthy teens and adults, viral gastroenteritis is a common but minor inconvenience. But in small children, it can very easily lead to dehydration, which requires medical attention. Viral gastroenteritis is also the most common cause of diarrhoea in infants and young children.

Many different types of bacteria and parasites can cause gastrointestinal infections and diarrhoea. Most are not serious and go away after a few days, but others can be quite serious. An infection of Rotavirus in particular, can go on for two weeks. The presence of blood in stools is a cause of concern and warrants prompt medical consultation and antibiotics.

The Giardia parasite, which spreads easily through contaminated water and human contact, is another common cause of diarrhoeal infections. This parasite can spread through water parks and pools because it is resistant to chlorine treatment. Infants in child-care settings often become infected with Giardia and can bring the parasite home, causing diarrhoea even in family members.

Usually gastrointestinal infections cause abdominal cramping followed by diarrhea. One may also experience fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, dehydration, mucus or blood in the stool.

The most effective way to prevent contagious diarrhoeal infections is to wash hands frequently. Dirty hands carry germs into the body. Food and water can also spread germs that cause diarrhoea.

Foods should be cooked thoroughly and raw fruits and vegetables washed well before eating. Avoid feeding the child food that has been left out for a few hours, even if it has been reheated, because toxins can still survive in the food.

Most cases of diarrhoea and vomiting can be managed at home by giving plenty of liquids to the child. The treatment aims at prevention of dehydration using common home-based drinks like lime water. Continue feeding the child all through the illness. Sugar-based energy drinks should not be given as they tend to increase the frequency of loose stools.

The new WHO oral rehydration solution ORS is especially useful in prevention and treatment of dehydration. If the child is vomiting, a few sips of water alternating with ORS solution will help.

Monitor urination, tears and saliva. Normal amounts of these mean that the child is well hydrated.

If the child is vomiting too frequently or is passing large volumes of stools, it may be impossible to replace the losses orally. In such a case, the child should be admitted in a hospital and receive intravenous fluids till the acute episode is over.

Any diarrhoeal episode lasting for more than a week, even in absence of signs of dehydration, should receive medical treatment.

Pain in the abdomen: This is a frequent complaint, especially among toddlers. Organisms such as Giardia and worms are usually the culprits and this requires medical attention if the symptoms are persistent. If the child is not eating properly, wakes up at night due to pain or if the pain is interfering with day-to-day activities then it is a cause of concern.

Recurrent abdominal pain RAP is a common problem and requires a thorough evaluation for identification of the cause. Colicky abdominal pain, especially if localised, is an emergency and merits urgent medical consultation and evaluation.

Jaundice: The yellow discoloration of eyes and urine along with nausea, vomiting and decreased appetite strikes frequently during summer.

The symptoms are manifestation of viral illness affecting the liver. The commonest cause is Hepatitis A, which is spread through contaminated water and food. Hepatitis E is another virus transmitted by the same route and is more serious.

Maintenance of hygiene and consumption of clean water can help prevent infection by both these viruses. A safe and effective vaccine for Hepatitis A is available and helps prevent the disease in those immunised. Most cases of acute Hepatitis are asymptomatic and subside in two to three weeks.

It is essential to consult a physician in all cases of jaundice, as a small proportion of the affected children may eventually suffer acute liver failure. Contrary to popular belief, no dietary restrictions are required for jaundice. In most children, it8217;s a self-limiting illness requiring little or no medication. But a close monitoring of the child is important.

The most common and troublesome gastrointestinal problems in children can be prevented and managed by simple and timely remedies. Awareness and early identification of danger signals is essential, as it results in timely medical treatment.

The authors belong to Apollo Centre for Advanced Paediatrics, Apollo Hospitals