Viral gastroenteritis

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Digestive system

Digestive system organs

Rotavirus infection; Norwalk virus; Gastroenteritis - viral; Stomach flu 

The goal of treatment is to prevent dehydration. Fluids and electrolytes (salt and minerals) lost by diarrhea must be replaced. Electrolyte and fluid replacement solutions for children are available in food and drug stores. Juice, soda or water do not replace electrolytes lost from vomiting or diarrhea. Children with diarrhea often benefit from dietary modifications until the diarrhea subsides.

Since the risk of dehydration is greater in infants and young children, parents should closely monitor the number of wet diapers changed per day when the child is sick. People with diarrhea who are unable to take fluids by mouth because of nausea may need intravenous fluids. This is especially true in small children.

Antibiotics do not work for viruses. 

Antidiarrheal medications are generally not given, as they may prolong the infectious process. DO NOT give anti-diarrheal medications to children unless directed to do so by a health care provider.

People taking diuretics who develop diarrhea may be advised by their health care provider to stop taking the diuretic during the acute episode. However, DO NOT stop taking any prescription medicine without first talking to your doctor.

Most infections will go away on their own. Children may become severely ill from dehydration caused by diarrhea.

Rotavirus causes severe gastroenteritis in infants and young children. Severe dehydration and death can occur in this age group.

Call your health care provider if diarrhea persists for more than several days or if dehydration occurs. You should also contact your doctor if the following symptoms are present:

• Blood in the stool
• Low urine output  
• Nausea
• Faintness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Sunken appearance to the eyes
• Sunken fontanelle (soft spot on an infant's head)
• Confusion

Review Date: 02/14/2007
Reviewed By: Alan Greene, MD, FAAP, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital; Chief Medical Officer, A.D.A.M., Inc.