klinikfarma.com Diarrhea is a condition that occurs when the frequency of bowel movements (BAB) increases to three times a day or more, accompanied by a liquid or runny stool texture. This condition is not only experienced by adults, but also children. Diarrhea in children can be caused by various things, such as food poisoning, intestinal disorders, and other factors.
Diarrhea in children is generally caused by a bacterial infection that spreads to the human body through contaminated food or drink. Children are more susceptible to diarrhea if their immune system is low, such as when they have not received enough breast milk (ASI) until the age of six months. In addition, diarrhea in children can also be triggered by food poisoning, allergies, impaired food absorption, side effects of drugs, and behavioral and environmental factors, such as poor sanitation.
Symptoms of Diarrhea in Children
Apart from increased frequency of bowel movements, some other symptoms that usually accompany diarrhea in children are:
- Bloated.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Fever.
- Decreased appetite.
- The body is weak and not as active as usual.
- Abdominal pain and cramps.
When experiencing diarrhea, the child’s body will lose fluids and electrolytes faster because the digestive tract has difficulty absorbing water, and fluids come out with the feces. Children are more susceptible to dehydration when experiencing diarrhea compared to adults.
Degree of Dehydration in Children’s Diarrhea
Dehydration in childhood diarrhea is divided into three degrees based on its severity:
1. No Dehydration
At this level, the child is not dehydrated. They remain active, drink as usual, have no symptoms of sunken eyes, and urination frequency is normal. However, it is still necessary to pay attention to the child’s fluid needs. Parents can provide breast milk, food, or formula as usual, as well as 5-10 milliliters of oral rehydration solution each time diarrhea recurs. In conditions without dehydration, the child will only lose less than 5% of their body weight.
2. Mild-Moderate Dehydration
Mild-moderate dehydration is characterized by the child’s thirst and decreased frequency of urination. The child may also experience symptoms such as decreased skin turgor, sunken eyes, and dry lips. In this condition, immediately take the child to the nearest health facility or hospital for medical treatment. Children can lose fluids of around 5–10% of their body weight at this level.
3. Severe Dehydration
Severe dehydration is characterized by the same symptoms as mild-moderate dehydration, plus decreased consciousness, a very weak body, and increased pulse and respiratory rate. In this condition, the child needs IV fluids immediately in the hospital because they can lose more than 10% of their body weight.
How to Treat Diarrhea in Children
How to treat diarrhea in children depends on the degree of dehydration and its cause. Children who experience diarrhea without dehydration can be treated at home, while children with mild-moderate or severe dehydration require further medical care. Always consult a doctor to determine the right treatment for your child when experiencing diarrhea. Do not hesitate to seek medical help if you are concerned about your child’s condition.
