Diarrhea

An intestinal virus is the most common cause of diarrhea in a child as well as in an adult. In children, medications to stop the diarrhea are usually either ineffective, or somewhat dangerous. During the first several days of a virus causing diarrhea or vomiting, large amounts of fluids are needed to keep a child well hydrated. Special formulas are needed for the infant. Milk, and lactose-containing products should be restricted temporarily because the intestinal lining loses the ability to breakdown the milk sugar. The child should be returned to his regular diet within 3-5 days to avoid prolongation of his diarrhea. If your child stills reacts to milk products, suitable substitutes should be used. Diarrhea may result from other dietary factors as well, but these are rare.