How to Manage Acute Gastroenteritis Among Children

According the the American Academy of Family Physicians, acute gastroenteritis is common, especially in children under five years old. In addition, the condition can be more dangerous for young children than for adults. The symptoms of acute gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, and most commonly diarrhea. This condition can be caused by viruses, bacteria or contaminants in food or drinks. In any case, it is important to carefully manage acute gastroenteritis in children.

Things You'll Need

• Pedialyte (or similar) Acetaminophen Bland foods Comfortable place for the child to rest

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Instructions

Managing Gastroenteritis Among Children

• 1

  As soon as you begin to notice the symptoms of acute gastroenteritis in the child, start giving her Pedialyte to keep her fully hydrated. One of the greater risks from vomiting and diarrhea is dehydration, and the Mayo Clinic specifically advises against rehydration with water alone, as it is not effective enough. The clinic also suggests the patient stay away from juices or milk because these drinks can make the diarrhea worse.

• 2

  If you find that the child is in pain as a result of his symptoms, use acetaminophen--such as Children's Tylenol--to relieve his pain.

• 3

  When it seems that the child's stomach is settling, begin to slowly reintroduce food to her system. Keep her diet bland until the symptoms subside entirely, giving her foods such as white rice, potatoes, dry toast or bananas.

• 4

  Throughout the process, give the child plenty of rest and make sure that he does not engage in strenuous physical activity. Acute gastroenteritis can cause weakness, and it is important that the child rest as much as possible.

• 5

  If the symptoms go on for more than a day or so, you may want to contact the child's pediatrician. Call the pediatrician immediately if there is blood in the child's stool or vomit or if she appears to be suffering from dehydration. Signs of dehydration include an increase in thirst, lack of tears when crying, and dry mouth. Contact her pediatrician if she becomes abnormally drowsy.