Patient's question:
HelloMy daughter is seven months old. A few days ago, she had a fever and went to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with gastroenteritis. However, she didn't vomit at the time. After receiving an IV drip, her fever has gone down, but now she's vomiting badly. She vomits shortly after eating, and she's also quite fussy. What could be the reason for this? How should I feed her? I urgently need a response. Thank you!
Doctor's answer:
Hello:It is recommended to continue treatment. The following treatment plans are suggested:
1. Antibiotics: Bacterial gastroenteritis can be treated with antibiotics. Due to the gradual change in bacterial resistance, medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor and as prescribed. Some patients may stop medication as soon as their symptoms improve, only to develop chronic colitis due to insufficient treatment, which can lead to prolonged recovery, affecting the child's nutrition and health.
2. Intravenous Infusion: The most dangerous complication of diarrhea is dehydration. Children are more prone to dehydration than adults, and severe cases may experience a loss of over 10% of their body weight. The mortality rate due to dehydration can reach 30%. However, replenishing fluids can reduce the mortality rate to below 5%. Therefore, intravenous infusion is the best treatment for diarrhea. In severe cases, when the intestines are swollen and unable to absorb fluids, drinking water may lead to immediate diarrhea. In such situations, children must receive intravenous treatment to replenish saline and glucose. If acidosis is severe, alkali solutions should be administered, and if potassium is deficient, potassium supplements are needed. In addition to providing nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes, intravenous infusion also has a role in stopping diarrhea. When all oral anti-diarrheal medications are ineffective, intravenous infusion becomes the best option for stopping diarrhea.
3. Diet: In severe diarrhea, food should be temporarily withheld to allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest. Once the condition improves, start with rice water or diluted skim milk, gradually increasing the concentration. Prolonged fasting should be avoided to prevent malnutrition. Additionally, vitamin supplementation should be noted. Some children, especially those with allergic diarrhea, may require special dietary treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Diarrhea in children may seem common, but it is also one of the most deadly diseases. Therefore, in severe cases, do not self-medicate—seek medical advice and a prescription.
Vomiting can be treated with medications such as metoclopramide.