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Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is characterised by the child having loose watery
stools (more than three a day), and is often accompanied by
vomiting, especially after the intake of food. Diarrhoea - with
or without vomiting can cause the body to lose essential fluids,
causing dehydration - a serious condition that can be prevented.
While some might believe that diarrhoea is not a particularly
dangerous complaint, it can lead to life-threatening
consequences in babies and young children. Babies have a small
body mass and when they develop diarrhoea they very quickly lose
fluid and vital minerals from their bodies, which if untreated
results in dehydration. Children under five years of age are
particularly vulnerable, as severe diarrhoea left untreated may
result in death.
Signs of dehydration are:
- Dry mouth and tongue
- Sunken eyes
- Little urine passed, which is dark in colour
- Cold hands and feet
- Skin that is pinched, takes time to return
When treating diarrhoea, it is essential to replace all lost
fluids and minerals to prevent dehydration, and this can be
effectively done by giving your baby an oral rehydration
solution as soon as the diarrhoea/vomiting starts. Oral
rehydration solutions are available from your local pharmacy, or
alternatively you can make this solution at home, but do be
absolutely sure to use the correct amount of ingredients. This
solution should be offered to your baby as frequently as
possible, and in small amounts to prevent the onset of vomiting.
Home recipe for oral rehydration solution:
| SMALL AMOUNT |
LARGE AMOUNT |
| 1 cup clean water |
1 litre clean water |
| 2 level teaspoons sugar |
8 level teaspoons sugar |
| 2 pinches of salt |
½ teaspoon salt |
| Mix ingredients together and
allow to cool. Keep the solution well covered. |
Mix ingredients together and
allow to cool. Keep the solution well covered |
Prevention:
There are no guaranteed safeguards against diarrhoea, but
you'll reduce the likelihood by keeping your baby well nourished
- breastfeeding is the best and safest way; following strict
hygiene measures when bottle-feeding - cleaning all teats,
dummies and bottles with the greatest of care, and being sure to
use clean water; washing your hands before handling your baby
and; not giving unnecessary medication.
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