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What is diarrhea? 

Diarrhea is a digestive condition that causes children to have watery stools. It’s not uncommon to have occasional diarrhea, but if it lasts longer than two to four weeks or more, your child may have an underlying condition.

Depending on the cause of your child’s diarrhea, they might experience other signs of the illness, including:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Cramping
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Decreased appetite

If your child has blood in their stools, you should contact your child’s pediatrician right away for an expert evaluation. They can order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause. 

What causes diarrhea?

There are several possibilities that may lead to diarrhea. Most often, the digestive condition is caused by bacterial or viral infections. If your family travels often, your child may have a higher risk of getting a bacterial infection that causes diarrhea. 

Chronic diarrhea is often the result of an underlying illness, including:

  • Food allergies
  • Celiac disease (gluten intolerance)
  • Irritable bowel disease (IBD)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Pediatric crohn’s disease
  • Ulcerative colitis 
  • Pancreatitis 

The team at American Pediatrics takes the time to understand the underlying causes of your child’s diarrhea in order to provide effective relief and prevent further complications. 

What are the treatments for diarrhea?

In many cases, diarrhea symptoms usually resolve on their own without medical intervention. Typically, treatments for diarrhea focus on improving hydration. If your child’s symptoms are related to a bacterial infection, they might need medications like antibiotics. 

The team may recommend: 

  • Consuming electrolyte-rich fluids 
  • Avoiding spicy foods
  • Eating liquid foods like warm soups 
  • Avoiding dairy products for at least 24-48 hours
  • Avoiding sugary drinks

If your child has ongoing diarrhea, their pediatrician may order diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, or stool tests, to determine the root cause. They then create a personalized treatment plan that fits their needs. 

With same-day sick visits and telehealth consultations available, you never have to worry about being unable to access care that helps your child feel better. 

To learn more about treatment options for your child’s diarrhea, call American Pediatrics or book an appointment online today.