Most children will have an occasional episode of diarrhea - it usually improves in a few days without making a change in the diet or giving medications. Antidiarrheal medications are not recommended for young children and may be harmful. While most episodes of diarrhea will go away in a few days, the main risk of diarrhea is dehydration. Your goal in caring for your child is to provide comfort and prevent dehydration.
Continue giving breast milk or formula
Avoid foods that cause loose stools, such as fruit and fruit juices
Continue your child's usual diet and increase fluids. Commercially prepared oral rehydration solutions such as PedialyteÆ, RicelyteÆ or other generic brands will help. For older children, you may substitute a solution of half GatoradeÆ and half water.
Preventive Measures
Good hand washing is the most important prevention for your child as well as any caregiver - teach your child to wash his or her hands after using the toilet and before eating
Limit the amount of sweetened beverages and juices your child drinks
Feed your child yogurt when taking an antibiotic
Cook all foods thoroughly and refrigerate all uncooked foods and leftovers immediately
Thoroughly clean all work surfaces before and after food preparation.
Most episodes of diarrhea will resolve gradually as long as you take steps to prevent dehydration. If you have concerns about your child's condition, please call your physician.
