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Episodes of diarrhea and vomiting in the pediatric population are a common cause for visits to pediatricians and emergency services. The causes of these episodes are varied; however, they share a common factor: they lead to dehydration.
When dehydration is not promptly addressed, it can have significant consequences on the child’s health. Therefore, it is crucial to be able to recognize it and rehydrate the child as soon as possible.
Why do episodes of diarrhea and vomiting occur in children?
It is important to understand that diarrhea and vomiting in children have multiple causes. It is necessary to consult a doctor for evaluation and diagnosis of the child. This way, they can receive the appropriate treatment for their condition.
Among the most common causes are:
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Contact with contaminated water:
Water from latrines, septic tanks, or wastewater may contain microorganisms that, when in contact with humans, can cause diseases leading to diarrhea.
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Infectious diseases:
Cholera, gastrointestinal conditions caused by Escherichia coli, Shigella, or rotaviruses can lead to episodes of diarrhea and vomiting, which, in some cases, can be fatal if not treated promptly.
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Lack of hygiene:
Poor personal hygiene practices and improper food handling can lead to the transmission of infectious diseases that cause diarrhea and/or vomiting.
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Malnutrition:
Lack of access to healthy and quality food in children results in them not receiving the necessary nutrients to protect their immune system, making them more vulnerable to infectious diseases that can cause diarrhea.
What causes dehydration?
Episodes of diarrhea and vomiting lead to the loss of water and electrolytes, which are essential for regulating vital functions in the body.
Dehydration can cause symptoms ranging from thirst (a natural response to fluid loss), sunken eyes, irritability, to loss of consciousness in severe cases.
Detecting these symptoms during or after an episode of diarrhea or vomiting indicates the need for urgent medical attention.
What are the consequences of dehydration?
Failure to rehydrate during an episode of diarrhea or vomiting can have serious implications for the child’s health, including:
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Loss of electrolytes:
Significant loss of essential components such as sodium, potassium, and chloride can affect the normal functioning of the child’s body.
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Difficulty regulating body temperature:
Dehydration hinders the regulation of body temperature.
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Cardiovascular problems:
Dehydration can lead to low blood pressure, tachycardia (accelerated heart rate), and other heart and blood vessel problems due to reduced fluid levels in the blood.
Rehydration: An essential measure
Rehydration is the treatment applied to restore lost water and electrolytes in a patient. In cases of diarrhea or vomiting in children, the two most common methods of rehydration are:
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Oral rehydration salts (ORS):
These compounds contain specific amounts of sugar, electrolytes, and water, designed for rapid absorption in the body, reducing the duration of dehydration and avoiding complications. They are available in liquid or powder form and can be found in pharmacies and supermarkets. ORS is used in cases of mild to moderate dehydration in children who can tolerate oral intake of liquids.
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Intravenous fluids:
These treatments are used in cases of severe dehydration. They can only be administered in a healthcare facility or hospital by qualified medical personnel. The treatment approach depends on the severity of dehydration.
It is important to note that sports drinks or carbonated beverages do not function as rehydration agents. These types of drinks usually contain excess sugars, which could have the opposite effect and lead to further dehydration in the child.
In the case of excessive or persistent vomiting and diarrhea, it is advisable to take the child to a healthcare facility to be attended to by medical personnel.
