Most diarrhea in children is caused by a viral infection and is sometimes accompanied by vomiting and fever. On occasion, viral diarrhea can last up to a week or two. The treatment for diarrhea illnesses is generally supportive: plenty of fluids and rest. We do not routinely recommend over-the-counter remedies and several of them are actually contraindicated in children.
For infants, breastfed babies can continue to nurse as usual but should be offered the breast more frequently; bottle-fed babies can continue their regular formula initially but may need to switch to a soy-based formula if the diarrhea lasts more than a few days. Your toddler or older child can continue their regular diet with the avoidance of spicy or fatty foods. We frequently encourage using the BRATY diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast and yogurt. Yogurt with active cultures can sometimes help restore the helpful bacteria to the gut. We will often advise limiting milk (as a beverage) if diarrhea lasts more than a couple of days. Fruit and juices actually worsen the diarrhea and should be avoided. Since children can get dehydrated, it is important to offer extra fluids to replace those lost in the diarrhea. Extra bottles, breastfeedings or Pedialyte can be used in babies; older children can be offered extra water or Gatorade. Do not be alarmed if your child is eating less solid food than usual as long as they are drinking plenty of fluids.
Call the office if there is any blood in the diarrhea, if it lasts longer than two weeks or if your child seems very ill or exhibits signs of dehydration (no urine in 8 hours, no tears with crying, sunken soft spot in babies, inside of mouth dry and sticky).
