Toddlers are often inquisitive and keep exploring around them while playing, so it is not a surprise that a stomach bug in toddlers is a common illness and a worry for parents. Understanding what causes it, what symptoms to watch for in your child, and how to care for the baby can help you act immediately.
What Is Gastroenteritis in Children?
Gastroenteritis in children refers to inflammation of the stomach lining and intestines. It usually shows signs and symptoms with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and sometimes fever. Therefore, it is termed “stomach flu,” which isn’t caused by the usual influenza virus but instead by a range of other viruses, bacteria, or parasites.
In toddlers, gastroenteritis can rapidly spread in daycare centers, schools, or even within households because toddlers share toys and touch different surfaces. Therefore, poor hand hygiene can become a source. Parents need to recognize the signs early to prevent dehydration and other complications.
Signs of Stomach Bug in Baby or Toddler
Identifying the Signs of a stomach bug in a baby or toddler early helps you to respond effectively:
- Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools occurring frequently.
- Vomiting: Often sudden, sometimes repeated, leading to fluid loss.
- Fever: A fever due to stomach infection may appear mild or high, depending on the severity.
- Abdominal cramps and bloating: The child may cry, bend over, or hold the stomach.
- Loss of appetite: Toddlers may refuse to eat or drink.
- Irritability and fatigue: They may appear unusually fussy or tired.
- Signs of dehydration: Few wet diapers, dry mouth, sunken eyes, or drowsiness.
Causes: Viral vs. Bacterial vs. Parasitic
Viral infections: This is the leading cause of stomach flu in kids. Rotavirus and norovirus are the most common viruses behind these infections.
Bacterial infections: These are often caused by contaminated food or water. A bacterial infection in infants causes issues such as blood in the stools and requires immediate medical attention.
Parasitic infections: Less common but occur because of poor hygiene.
Fever Due to Stomach Infection: When to Worry
A fever due to stomach infection is the body’s mechanism to fight against the germ attack. Most fevers are usually of a low grade and manageable; however, if the temperature exceeds 39°C and stays like that for several days, you need to seek immediate medical attention. Do not give aspirin to children and stick to doctor-recommended dosages and medicines.
Home Care and Treatment Options
Most cases of a stomach bug in toddlers are treatable with supportive care; it does not always require professional care. Supportive care, like:
- Hydration is key:
- Offer frequent sips of ORS.
- Avoid carbonated or sugary drinks, which can make diarrhea worse.
- Breastfeeding must be continued for infants.
2. Gentle diet:
- Once vomiting calms down, introduce bland foods like rice, toast, bananas, applesauce, boiled potatoes, and plain yogurt.
- Avoid heavy meals, oily, fried, or spicy dishes until recovery.
3. Rest and comfort:
- Allow your toddler plenty of rest.
- Cool down their temperature during a fever.
4. Hygiene:
- Cleaning the touched surfaces and toys often.
- Washing hands after diaper changes and before meals.
When to See a Doctor
Contact a pediatrician or emergency care if:
- Your toddler becomes severely dehydrated
- Vomiting persists beyond 24 hours.
- Diarrhea lasts more than several days.
- There is blood in vomit or stools.
- Fever remains high or unresponsive to medication.
- The baby appears unusually drowsy or unresponsive.
Preventing Stomach Bug in Toddlers
These are the simple steps that parents can take:
- Vaccination: The rotavirus vaccine helps to protect and control gastroenteritis in children.
- Hand hygiene: Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water, particularly before meals and after using the toilet.
- Safe food and water: Drinking filtered and clean water, and ensuring food is well-cooked and stored correctly.
- Avoid exposure: Let your sick child rest and recover at home to avoid spreading the illness.
Related Infections
Sometimes stomach bugs can be confused with other ailments, such as bacterial infection in infants. However, gastroenteritis is usually caused by viruses; bacterial infections can mimic these symptoms. Therefore, understanding how to spot the difference is essential.
Why Choose GM Clinic – Best Children’s Hospital in Hyderabad
At GM Clinic, we understand how panicking it can be when your child falls ill. We have an exceptional team of pediatricians to manage gastroenteritis and related illnesses with advanced care. From diagnosis to recovery, we provide everything in one place; your child’s safety is our priority.
Conclusion
A stomach bug in toddlers is a common illness, but it needs special care and attention. Several children recover in a few days with lots of fluid and supportive care. However, parents must be aware of when to seek expert help.
If your toddler is down with a stomach flu, persistent diarrhea, or fever due to a stomach infection, don’t wait. Immediately reach out to GM Clinic – Best Children’s Hospital in Hyderabad for expert pediatric care. Book your appointment today for a consultation.