Acute Gastroenteritis in Children

Stomach infection is referred to as gastroenteritis (intestines It results in symptoms including nausea (vomiting) and abdominal pain along with diarrhoea. The infection usually goes away in a few days, but occasionally it takes longer. Acute gastroenteritis continues to be a leading cause of illness and mortality in children, leading to the death of 1.34 million children under the age of five every year, or about 15% of all child fatalities.

Its adverse effects, including vomiting, diarrhoea, and dehydration, continue to pose serious hazards to children and account for a sizable portion of healthcare costs. Accurately determining one's dehydration state continues to be a vital step in avoiding mortality because the severity of the disease depends on the amount of fluid lost. The most common and harmful complication in children is dehydration, which can lead to acidosis of the metabolism and electrolyte disturbances. Visit our gastro hospital in Goa to know more.

Giving the children a lot of liquids is the primary form of treatment. Giving out specific rehydration liquids may be necessary. Additionally, after any dehydration has been corrected with liquids, the children should eat as regularly as they can. If someone thinks their child is dehydrating or exhibits any concerning symptoms, they need to contact the doctor immediately.

Causes of Gastroenteritis

Most of the cases of gastroenteritis are caused by:

• Viruses

• Bacteria

• Parasites

Other rare causative agents include:

• Chemical toxins

• Drugs

Symptoms of Gastroenteritis

Children may not show all the symptoms, but some of the common gastroenteritis symptoms include:

• Loss of appetite

• Bloating

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal cramps and pain

• Diarrhoea

• Bloody stools

• Pus in stools

• Not feeling well most of the time, involving lethargy and body aches.

Complications because of Gastroenteritis

Dehydration, or having too little fluid in the body, is the most frequent side effect of acute gastroenteritis and happens when a lot of fluid is lost in the stool and vomit. Children who are somewhat dehydrated are thirsty, but those who are severely dehydrated become angry, sluggish, or listless (lethargic).

Compared to older kids, infants are far more likely to experience major adverse effects from dehydration. Dehydrated infants require immediate medical attention.

Children with acute gastroenteritis should drink enough water.

Make sure the youngster drinks clean fluids if they have gastroenteritis (or breastmilk if the baby is breastfeeding). Babies under 6 months old are more susceptible to developing gastro because they require more fluids to make up for the fluids lost via vomiting and diarrhoea. Breastfeeding should be continued while doing this. If using a bottle, one should start with clear liquids for the first 12 hours before introducing the regular formula in smaller, more frequent doses.

Even though the diarrhoea appears to get worse, it is crucial to drink fluids. In order to help, parents should:

• Offer a drink to the children every time they vomit.

• After each significant episode of vomiting or diarrhoea, older children should be given a drink (150–200 ml).

• If the child is frequently vomiting, they should be given tiny amounts of fluid frequently (a mouthful every 15 minutes).

Diagnosis of Gastroenteritis

Due to its common symptoms, most parents can identify gastroenteritis in children. However, there may be times when the parents need to get their child's medical counsel. Doctors will typically check the child for bodily fluid dehydration symptoms (dehydration). They might do a temperature and heart rate check. They might also check your child's belly (tummy) to see if there is any soreness. Typically, tests are not required. However, in some circumstances, the doctor could ask to gather a sample of the child's faeces. The cause of the infection can then be determined by having the stool sample tested in a lab. Consult with our expert gastroenterologist in Goa to have the best treatment.

Treatment of Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis symptoms typically go away in a few days or less since a child's immune system can usually get rid of the illness. Typically, children can get care at home. Sometimes, if symptoms are severe or if complications arise, hospital admission is required. Some of the treatment approaches require:

• Intake of fluids and rehydration solutions

• Recommendations for taking antibiotics rarely for some specific infections

• Recommendations for taking drugs rarely to limit the effects of vomiting and diarrhoea

How do you prevent dehydration in children with acute gastroenteritis?

Give the youngster clear liquids such as:

• Water

• Oral rehydration products are available from a pharmacist by following the instructions to make them up.

• Diluted natural fruit juice with 1 tablespoon juice to 4 tablespoons water.

Dr. Rohan Badave

Consultant - Medical Gastroenterology

Manipal Hospitals, Goa