Author: Lau Wing Lam
Registered nurse at SKH St. Thomas ‘Child Care Centre
Infants and young children are prone to diarrhea or vomiting. They tend to explore objects by putting them in their mouths, which can result in ingesting bacteria and viruses that cause symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting. Apart from the oral route of infection, sudden changes in formula or its concentration can also lead to diarrhea in infants. Another possibility is lactose intolerance, where symptoms occur upon consuming lactose-containing formula. In such cases, switching to a lactose-free formula is recommended.
Question 1:
If a child vomits everything they eat or drink, should I stop feeding them?
Answer: When a child vomits multiple times, it can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Excessive loss of electrolytes can cause muscle contractions, particularly in the respiratory muscles, leading to breathing difficulties.
According to Dr. Luo Yu-fang, if the gastrointestinal rest period is too long, the intestinal mucosa can shrink, prolonging the recovery time for normal eating and weakening the immune system. When encountering viruses, it becomes easier to develop diarrhea, ultimately affecting nutrient absorption and growth. Parents can offer food based on the child’s mental condition and gradually reintroduce a normal diet if the child shows an appetite.
Question 2:
To prevent excessive electrolyte loss in children, should we provide them with electrolyte drinks?
Answer: Children aged 2 and above can consume electrolyte drinks to replenish electrolytes in their bodies, but it should not be excessive. However, children under 2 years old are not recommended to consume them because their kidney function is not fully developed at this stage, which may have long-term effects on kidney and heart function.
Question 3:
Should parents give their children anti-diarrheal medication?
Answer: Diarrhea occurs because the intestines have impurities, and the body needs to eliminate these impurities through bowel movements. Taking anti-diarrheal medication can hinder the elimination of pathogens, prolonging the illness. Improper use of anti-diarrheal medication can cause bloating or even more severe problems, such as sepsis.
Question 4:
Is my baby experiencing diarrhea due to teething?
Answer: Most cases of diarrhea are caused by infections. During teething, infants’ gums can become itchy, leading them to chew on objects and increasing the risk of bacterial infection.
Helpful tips:
- If your infant or young child experiences diarrhea or vomiting, parents should monitor the frequency and prevent dehydration while keeping their temperature in check. When the body shows signs of inflammation, such as fever, parents should seek medical attention for their child.
- Parents should also pay attention to the baby’s buttocks, as repeated diarrhea can cause redness and diaper rash. Cleaning the stool with water and soft cotton pads is recommended, avoiding scented wet wipes. Applying zinc oxide cream or petroleum jelly to the affected area and frequently changing diapers can provide a physical barrier, protecting the baby’s skin from irritation.
References:
- 爸媽免驚！破解「腹瀉」迷思，寶寶這樣吃！http://www.qchicken.com.tw/Health/ChildHealthContent/500
- 寶寶拉肚子４大警訊！https://www.mababy.com/knowledge-detail?id=6628
- 兒童健康攻略 – 急性腹瀉 https://www.healthbureau.gov.hk/pho/files/child_2-12_Acute_diarrhea.pdf
