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Toddler Diarrhea: What to Do?
Known as ‘chronic diarrhea’ in infants and also called ‘irritable bowel syndrome’ in older children, toddler
diarrhea is a common disease among children ranging in age from six months to three years. By age four, the
frequency of this problem decreases significantly. Toddler diarrhea can last for two weeks or more, and often
perplexes physicians as well as parents.
Clinical Symptoms of Toddler Diarrhea
Toddler diarrhea is characterized by two to six watery stools daily. In severe cases, ten stools per day can be
reported. There can also be days with no stools. The stools usually contain undigested food particles. The
perplexing thing about the disease is that it does not appear to affect the normal growth of the child, and often
there is no readily detectable sign of infection. The stools of the child are hema test negative, which means that
there is no blood in the stools, or abdominal pain associated with the condition. Children who suffer this type of
diarrhea often show a history of colic, and sometimes a family history of irritable bowel syndrome.
Causes of Toddler Diarrhea
Diarrhea in toddlers has been related to a number of different causes. Studies tend to deny any role of bacteria or
infectious parasites in bringing on the condition. The main problem seems to revolve around the child’s diet. An
excess intake of fluids, too many carbohydrates, or too little fats in a child’s diet have been shown to induce
diarrhea in toddlers. Another diet factor that makes a child prone to diarrhea is a high sugar intake.
Treatment of Toddler Diarrhea
Diarrhea in toddlers can usually be treated with a modified diet. Carbohydrates and sugar may be reduced; making
sweetened fruit juices an absolute no-no in the child’s menu choices. Fat content of the food should be raised so
that it provides about 40 % of the total calories required daily. Fluid intake is decreased and high-fiber foods
like fruits, cereals, and bread are encouraged.
For a short time, anti-diarrheal medicines may be prescribed, especially in severe cases of the disease. However,
these are not suggested for long or frequent use. If the toddler is taking natural remedies for any condition,
these should be stopped and discussed with the physician. Parents can rest assured in knowing that toddler diarrhea
rarely includes any serious side effects, and the child is essentially cured by modifying his diet
appropriately.
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