Patient's question:
Expert, hello. My baby is now one year old. My baby had a slight fever a few days ago, and starting today, the baby has diarrhea and vomiting. It seems that the baby's stomach and intestines are not feeling well. I would like to ask the expert, what should I do? What are the symptoms of gastroenteritis in babies?Doctor's answer:
Gastroenteritis is a common childhood illness, and most children recover quickly. However, improper management can lead to serious complications, even death.Pathogens
1. Infectious:
Bacteria: e.g., Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter
Viruses: e.g., rotavirus, adenovirus
Parasites: e.g., Giardia
2. Non-infectious:
Chemical-induced: e.g., "toxic vegetables." Most gastroenteritis cases are caused by viral or bacterial infections.
The main route of transmission is the oral-fecal route. Rotavirus is more common in winter, while Salmonella infections are more prevalent in summer.
Symptoms
Children typically exhibit symptoms such as poor appetite, fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Impacts
1. Dehydration
Severe vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Parents should be vigilant if a child’s diarrhea becomes more frequent or severe, watching for signs such as:
Abnormally dry mouth and tongue
Loss of skin elasticity
Significant reduction in urine output
Irritability or lethargy
If any of these symptoms are present or parents have concerns, they should seek medical attention promptly.
2. Electrolyte imbalance
Vomiting or diarrhea can cause excessive loss of electrolytes, affecting bodily functions.
3. Damaged gastrointestinal mucosa
This may temporarily impair the ability to absorb lactose or high-fat foods.
4. Other complications
Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can lead to seizures, abnormal heart rate, shock, kidney failure, multiple organ failure, or even death.
Care Instructions
1. Prevention and treatment of dehydration
For mild cases, normal diet and increased fluid intake are recommended.
For severe cases, oral rehydration solutions (ORS) specifically designed for diarrhea should be used.
If oral rehydration is ineffective or severe dehydration is present, the child may require intravenous fluids.
In the early stages of gastroenteritis, vomiting may be severe. Drinking large amounts of fluids at once can easily trigger vomiting. Using a spoon or syringe to feed small amounts may be more successful.
2. Diet
When to start eating?
Early feeding is recommended to replenish fluids and maintain nutrition.
What to eat?
Most infant formula available in the market can be used safely without dilution for acute gastroenteritis patients. Therefore, unless advised by a doctor, there is no need to switch to a special formula, and breastfeeding can continue. However, some patients may experience temporary lactose intolerance due to gastroenteritis and should follow medical advice to switch to low-lactose formula (e.g., soy milk or other specialized formulas). Other suitable foods include congee, rice, noodles, potatoes, biscuits, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
What not to eat?
High-sugar, high-concentration foods (e.g., undiluted juice, soda) and greasy, fried foods should be avoided.
3. Medication
Antibiotics are generally not needed for gastroenteritis. Overuse of antibiotics may worsen diarrhea and prolong the carrier period. They are only used in rare cases.
Anti-diarrheal drugs may suppress symptoms but can cause severe side effects in children, such as intestinal paralysis, drowsiness, or even respiratory arrest. They should be avoided if possible.
Anti-diarrheal drugs can also slow intestinal motility, allowing bacteria to remain in the gut and prolong or worsen the condition.
4. Hygiene and preventing cross-infection
Wash hands before eating, nursing, or feeding, and after using the toilet or changing diapers.
Dispose of used diapers in designated bins and seal them properly.
During hospitalization, follow healthcare workers' instructions for hygiene and adhere to isolation measures.