What is the treatment for acute infective diarrhoea in children?
Acute diarrhoea normally clears within a week or so. The immune system usually fights off the infection. The following are commonly advised until symptoms ease. Drinks – give lots to drink. The aim is to avoid dehydration (low body fluid) which is the main possible complication of severe diarrhoea. Even if the child vomits or feels sick it is important to give frequent sips as some fluid will still be absorbed. Ideally, fruit juice should be included as this contains some sugar. However, any drink is better than none. If the child will only drink their favourite drink then that is fine. (Ice cubes and ice lollies are useful extra sources of fluid.) Rehydration drinks – may be advised by a doctor or nurse. They are used if there is a concern about dehydration. They can be taken instead of, or in addition to, normal drinks. They are made from sachets available from pharmacies. The contents of the sachet are added to water. Rehydration drinks provide a perfect balance of water, salt and s
