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Dear Parents,
Gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is commonly known as the stomach flu. Diarrhea is one of the most common symptoms of stomach flu and a common pediatric complaint affecting millions of infants and children throughout childhood. This brochure was designed to provide some information and helpful advice on stomach flu, diarrhea, and dehydration.
Understanding Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis means an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is commonly known as the stomach flu, although it is not caused by the influenza virus.
The symptoms of the stomach flu can include:
| Headache |
Vomiting |
| Stomachache |
Diarrhea |
| Fever |
Decreased Appetite |
In general, symptoms begin 1 to 2 days following exposure and may last for 1 to 10 days. For most children, the stomach flu is not a serious illness. However, if a child is unable to drink enough fluids, they may become dehydrated. (See Insert) Occasionally, more severe illnesses can cause vomiting or diarrhea. Call your pediatrician when the symptoms in the box to the right are present.
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You should call your Pediatrician immediately if your child has any of the following symptoms:
- Looks weak or is unresponsive
- Severe worsening abdominal pain
- A rectal temperature greater than 100.4o F if child is less than 3 months old
- Vomits yellow or green bile
- Blood or mucus in the diarrhea
- Projectile vomiting occurring 2 or more times a day in a child less than 3 months old. (Projectile vomiting means that the vomit travels greater than 1 foot from the baby)
- Vomiting over 24 hours without diarrhea
- No improvement in diarrhea after 1 week
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What is Diarrhea?
Diarrhea is the passage of watery stools, usually 3 or more in a 24-hour period. It is the consistency of the stools, more than the number, that is important. Babies fed breast milk will pass loose, pasty stools. This is not diarrhea. Mild diarrhea, during which a child’s energy level and appetite remain normal, requires no special treatment except the avoidance of excessive fruit juice. More significant diarrhea can cause dehydration and should be treated. (See Insert) |
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