4 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Diarrhea in Children

The symptoms of diarrhea can vary for each child and vary in severity, but they typically include some of the following:
 
-Dehydration or a loss of fluids in the body
-Cramping
-Pain in the belly
-Bloating or swelling
-An upset stomach
-An urgent need to go to the bathroom
-Incontinence
-Bloody stools
-Fever
 
Those symptoms might seem like other health matters. Also, severe diarrhea may be a sign of a serious health matter. You should see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. Read on to learn more about the symptoms and signs of dehydration, the most common complication of diarrhea.

The biggest complication with diarrhea is dehydration, which is more likely to occur in young children and those with a weakened immune system. With mild dehydration, there’s some loss of fluid and typically only minor symptoms, so it’s typically not dangerous and can be treated by a doctor like a pediatrician. Look for the common, minor signs of dehydration, like:
 
-Dry lips, mouth, and tongue
-A faster heartbeat than usual
-There aren’t any tears when your child cries
-No wet diapers for a young child for three hours or longer
-Sleepiness
-Irritability
-Sunken eyes or cheeks, or a soft spot on the top of your young child’s head
 
With moderate or severe dehydration, there can be more significant and even life-threatening complications that require emergency care at the ER (emergency room). With severe dehydration, a child may experience seizures, coma, organ problems, or other serious problems. Call 911 for these problems.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases recommends that children with any of these symptoms or issues should see a doctor for diarrhea:
 
-Dehydration
-A fever of 102 degrees or more
-Stools that seem tarry or black in color, or stools with blood or pus in them
-Diarrhea that’s lasted over 24 hours
 
You should go see an urgent care doctor or urgent care pediatrician. One of these professionals should be able to see your child right away without the need for an appointment, so your child won’t have to wait to see a doctor.

With a common, minor case of diarrhea, treatment is usually really simple! Since dehydration should be addressed, your child might need to replace lost fluids. Drinking water can help, but this may not be the case with a baby, and children shouldn’t drink too much water. Babies may need breast milk and special professional attention. If a bacterial infection is the cause of your child’s case of diarrhea, an antibiotic may be prescribed.
 
You might have more questions about diarrhea in children, or more specific questions for a doctor or pediatrician, so you’re more than welcome to reach out to us at Fast Aid Urgent Care. Of course, you’re also welcome to come to visit us if your child needs care for a minor case of diarrhea. We hope you found this Q&A helpful and that you learned more about how to help your child! Bring your child to Fast Aid Urgent Care for a higher level of care. For more information, contact us or join the virtual line. We serve patients from Bulverde Rd San Antonio TX, Windcrest TX, Selma TX, Bastrop TX, Paige TX, Smithville TX, Alamo Ranch San Antonio TX, Leon Valley TX, Helotes TX, La Grange TX, Rabbs Prairie TX, Halsted TX, Leon Springs TX, Fair Oaks Ranch TX, Cross Mountain TX, New Braunfels TX, Hunter TX, Zorn TX, Potranco Road San Antonio TX, Rio Medina TX, Rolling Oaks Estates TX, Dripping Springs, TX, Saddletree Ranch TX, Belterra TX, Lemon Creek Boerne TX, Scenic Oaks TX, Fair Oaks Ranch TX, Belle Chasse LA, Timberlane LA, Woodmere LA, and surrounding areas.