Diarrhoea in children

Overview

Diarrhoea in children means having loose, watery stools (poo) more often than usual. It usually goes away on its own, but the main worry is dehydration – when the body loses too much water and salts.

Yes, diarrhoea is very common in children, especially those under 5 years old.

It affects children of all ages, but babies and toddlers are most likely to get it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Passing loose or watery stools more often than usual
• Stomach cramps or pain
• Sometimes vomiting

Symptoms in children

• The same as common symptoms, plus: fussiness, refusing to eat, crying without tears, a dry mouth, and peeing less often

Symptoms in older adults

• Although this article focuses on children, diarrhoea in older adults can also lead to dehydration quickly and requires medical attention if it lasts more than a day or two.

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections, such as rotavirus or norovirus
• Bacterial infections, such as Salmonella or Campylobacter
• Food poisoning from contaminated food or water
• Side effects of certain medicines, especially antibiotics

Risk factors

• Attending daycare or nursery
• Not washing hands after using the toilet or before eating
• Recent travel to areas with poor sanitation

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any signs of dehydration
• Blood in the stool
• High fever that does not go away
• Child is very young (under 6 months)

Book a routine appointment if:

• Diarrhoea that lasts more than 7 days
• Significant weight loss
• Worsening symptoms despite home care

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms, check for signs of dehydration, and may take a small sample of poo to test for infection.

Tests that may be done

• Stool (poo) test to look for bacteria, viruses, or parasites
• Blood test to check the body’s salt and water balance (electrolytes)

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain the likely cause and give advice on how to prevent dehydration. They may also suggest a follow-up if symptoms do not improve.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on keeping your child hydrated and letting the body fight off the infection. Medicines are usually not needed.

Self-care at home

• Give small frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solution (available from pharmacies)
• Continue breastfeeding or formula feeding as normal
• Avoid fruit juice, fizzy drinks, and sports drinks – they can make diarrhoea worse
• Offer bland foods like toast, rice, or boiled potatoes when your child feels like eating

Medical treatments

In some cases, a doctor may recommend antibiotics for a bacterial infection. Do not give any anti-diarrhoea medicines to children without a doctor’s advice, as they can be harmful.

Living with this condition

Keep your child home from school or nursery until they have had no loose stools for at least 48 hours. Change nappies carefully and wash hands well after each change to stop the infection spreading.

Lifestyle tips

• Practise good hand hygiene – wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before meals
• Clean shared toys and surfaces regularly
• Keep separate towels and flannels for the infected child

Diet and exercise

Allow your child to rest as needed. When they feel better, gradually return to a normal diet. Avoid heavy or fatty foods for a few days.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Diarrhoea can be stressful for both you and your child. Stay calm, offer plenty of reassurance, and don’t put pressure on them to eat. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your health visitor or family doctor.

Prevention

Many cases can be prevented with good hygiene and the rotavirus vaccine (given to babies as part of routine immunisations).

Vaccines

The rotavirus vaccine is offered to babies at around 8 and 12 weeks of age. It helps prevent severe diarrhoea from rotavirus.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration – the most common complication, which can lead to hospitalisation if not treated
• Electrolyte (salt) imbalance – can affect how the heart and muscles work
• Malnutrition – especially if diarrhoea lasts a long time

Long-term outlook

The outlook is excellent. Most children recover fully within a week with proper fluid intake. Dehydration can be treated successfully if caught early. With good home care, serious complications are rare.

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