Diarrhea in Children

Diarrhea is the passage of loose, watery stools more often than usual. In children, it can be caused by infections, food intolerance, or other health issues. Most cases are mild and resolve on their own, but it’s important to monitor for dehydration, which can be serious.

Common Causes of Diarrhea in Children

1. Viral Infections
   • Most common cause (e.g., rotavirus, norovirus)
   • Often accompanied by vomiting, fever, and stomach cramps
2. Bacterial Infections
   • From contaminated food or water (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli, Shigella)
   • May cause more severe symptoms, sometimes with blood in the stool
3. Parasitic Infections
   • Less common, includes Giardia
   • Usually longer-lasting diarrhea
4. Food Intolerance or Allergy
   • Examples: Lactose intolerance, cow’s milk protein allergy
   • Diarrhea may be chronic or triggered by specific foods
5. Antibiotic Use
   • Antibiotics can disrupt gut bacteria and cause diarrhea
6. Teething (Mild Cases)
   • Some children have looser stools during teething, though this is usually mild