diarrhea in children

Overview

Diarrhea is when a child passes loose, watery stools more often than normal. It is usually caused by a stomach bug and often clears up on its own with rest and plenty of fluids.

Yes, diarrhea is one of the most common childhood illnesses. Most children will have it several times before they start school.

It can affect children of any age, but it is most common in babies and young children under 5 years old.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Loose, watery stools more often than normal
• Stomach cramps or tummy pain
• Feeling sick (nausea) or vomiting
• Mild fever
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms in children

• Fussiness or irritability
• Crying more than usual
• Pulling their knees to their tummy
• A nappy that stays dry for too long
• A soft spot (fontanelle) on the baby's head that feels sunken

Symptoms in older adults

• This article focuses on children, but in older adults diarrhea can be more serious and may cause confusion, dizziness, or signs of dehydration that need urgent medical attention.

Causes

Main causes

• Viral gastroenteritis (such as rotavirus or norovirus)
• Bacterial infections (such as salmonella or E. coli)
• Food poisoning from contaminated food or drink
• Parasites
• Food allergies or intolerances
• Antibiotics (as a side effect)
• Other illnesses, like an ear infection

Risk factors

• Attending daycare or school
• Being in close contact with someone who has diarrhea
• Poor handwashing after using the toilet
• Drinking contaminated water
• Eating undercooked food
• Having a weakened immune system

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Your child is under 6 months old
• Your child has a high fever
• There is blood in the stool
• Your child shows signs of dehydration
• Vomiting has not stopped for more than 6 hours
• Diarrhea is very watery and frequent, and your child cannot keep fluids down

Book a routine appointment if:

• Diarrhea continues for more than 5 days without improvement
• You are worried about weight loss or poor feeding
• Your child has a long-term health condition, such as a kidney or bowel problem

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your child's symptoms, check for signs of dehydration, and examine their belly. In most cases, no tests are needed and the doctor can diagnose based on the history and physical examination.

Tests that may be done

• Stool sample (to check for bacteria or parasites)
• Urine test (to check for dehydration)
• Blood test (in some cases)
• Sometimes a swab or additional tests if there has been recent travel abroad

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will tell you whether your child is dehydrated and give advice on fluids and foods. They may ask about recent travel, what your child ate, and whether other family members are sick. Most visits end with clear home-care instructions and when to come back.

Treatment

Most children do not need special medicine. The main treatment is replacing lost fluids to prevent dehydration and letting the child rest. You can give an oral rehydration solution (ORS) that helps replace water and salts.

Self-care at home

• Give small sips of water or an oral rehydration solution (available at pharmacies) every few minutes
• Keep feeding your child — breast milk or formula is fine for babies
• Offer soft, bland foods like rice, toast, bananas, and plain crackers as your child feels ready
• Let your child rest and stay at home to reduce the risk of spreading the infection
• Wash hands with soap and water after changing nappies and before eating
• Apply a barrier cream (like zinc oxide cream) around the bottom to protect the skin from irritation

Medical treatments

In some cases, a doctor may recommend specific rehydration drinks and mineral supplements to replace lost salts, but only under medical advice. Antibiotics are only given when a bacterial infection is confirmed. Medicines to stop diarrhea are not usually recommended for children because they can be unsafe.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat ordinary diarrhea. If a more serious cause is found that needs an operation, such as appendicitis, the surgeon will explain the specific procedure and what to expect.

Living with this condition

During a bout of diarrhea, keep your child comfortable, offer fluids regularly, and watch for signs of dehydration. Change nappies promptly and help older children use the toilet to avoid accidents. Make sure everyone in the household washes their hands well.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating
• Keep dirty nappies in a sealed bin
• Clean the toilet and high-touch surfaces regularly during illness
• Encourage your child to rest and sleep as needed

Diet and exercise

Offer small, frequent meals rather than large ones. Avoid sugary drinks, very fatty foods, and full-strength fruit juice until the tummy is settled. Once the diarrhea stops, return to a normal diet and let your child gradually get back to normal play and activity.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Caring for a sick child can be stressful and tiring. It is normal to feel worried. Take care of yourself, ask a partner or family member for help, and remember that most children recover quickly with simple care.

Prevention

Good hygiene and vaccinations can prevent many cases. You can reduce the risk by washing hands thoroughly, preparing food safely, using clean drinking water, and keeping your child away from others who are sick.

Vaccines

The rotavirus vaccine is given to babies as part of routine childhood vaccinations in many countries, including the UK. It protects against the most common cause of severe diarrhea in young children.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration is the main risk and can become dangerous if fluids are not replaced
• Electrolyte imbalance (loss of essential salts)
• Kidney problems in severe cases
• Malnutrition or poor growth with prolonged diarrhea

Long-term outlook

Most children with diarrhea feel better within a few days. With careful hydration and simple home care, serious complications are rare, and your child is expected to make a full recovery.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.