• 1 week ago

Gastroenteritis in Children

What Is Gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines—typically caused by a viral, bacterial, or (rarely) parasitic infection. In children, it presents with diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever. The most common causes are viruses like rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus, but bacterial agents such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter may also be responsible.

Children between 6 months and 5 years old are especially vulnerable, especially if they attend daycare or school. Most cases are mild and resolve within a few days, but fluid loss (dehydration) can happen quickly—especially in infants. That’s why parental awareness and careful monitoring are essential.

What Are the Symptoms of Gastroenteritis?

Symptoms can vary in intensity depending on the cause and the child’s age or health status, but typically include:

  • Diarrhea: 3 or more episodes of loose or watery stool in 24 hours
  • Vomiting: Often sudden and frequent in early stages
  • Fever: May be mild or high depending on the pathogen
  • Stomach cramps, gas, bloating
  • Loss of appetite, lethargy
  • Decreased urine output or fewer wet diapers

In babies under 6 months, any vomiting or diarrhea should be closely monitored due to the higher risk of rapid dehydration.

Causes of Gastroenteritis

Viral

  • Rotavirus: Leading cause in young children; preventable with vaccination
  • Norovirus: Highly contagious; common in group settings like daycare
  • Adenovirus: Can cause both respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms

Bacterial

  • Salmonella, E. coli, Shigella: Often foodborne; may cause bloody stools, high fever, or prolonged diarrhea
  • Require stool culture for diagnosis and, in some cases, antibiotics

Diagnosis: When and How?

Most cases are diagnosed clinically based on symptoms and physical examination. But testing may be needed in certain situations:

  • Stool test: If diarrhea is prolonged, bloody, or accompanied by high fever
  • Rapid antigen test: For rotavirus or norovirus
  • Blood tests: To evaluate for inflammation, dehydration, or kidney function
  • Hydration status assessment: Key in determining treatment plan

How Is Gastroenteritis Treated?

There is no universal medication for gastroenteritis. Treatment focuses on replacing lost fluids and electrolytes and supporting the body’s recovery.

1. Rehydration

  • Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): Preferred over plain water for restoring electrolytes
  • Given in small, frequent sips—even if vomiting continues
  • Breastfed infants should continue to nurse frequently

2. Nutrition

  • Resume normal feeding as soon as possible
  • Stick to easy-to-digest, binding foods: rice, banana, toast, applesauce
  • Avoid sugary, fatty, and high-fiber foods during acute illness
  • In some cases, a temporary switch to lactose-free formula may help

3. Medications

  • Fever: Paracetamol or ibuprofen (age-appropriate dosing)
  • Probiotics: May shorten duration of diarrhea and help restore gut balance
  • Antibiotics: Only if prescribed after identifying a bacterial cause
  • Anti-diarrheal medications are not recommended in young children

When to Seek Medical Help

Immediate evaluation is needed if your child has:

  • Persistent vomiting (>6 hours)
  • No urine output for >8 hours
  • Blood in stool
  • Deep-set eyes, dry mouth, poor skin turgor (signs of dehydration)
  • Extreme fatigue or unresponsiveness
  • Is younger than 6 months with any concerning symptoms

How to Prevent Gastroenteritis

  • Rotavirus vaccination: Reduces risk of severe illness in infancy
  • Frequent handwashing: Especially after diaper changes or bathroom use
  • Safe food and water practices
  • Avoid contact with sick individuals
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces, toys, and utensils regularly

Follow-Up Care with Dr. Ekin Pasinlioğlu

  • Assessment of dehydration and illness severity
  • Individualized rehydration and feeding plan
  • Monitoring of symptoms and lab results when needed
  • Guidance on probiotics and dietary support
  • Return-to-daycare/school decisions based on recovery