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Ah, the stomach bug—could there be anything more unpleasant? I think it’s safe to say that nobody enjoys this experience. It’s uncomfortable, exhausting, and frankly, quite gross. And when it involves kids, it can become even more challenging. Not only do they have difficulty getting to the right place at the right time, but their little bodies can also be severely affected in a short span of time. As parents, we need to be ready. So what should we do? I consulted an expert for guidance.
Dr. Maria Carter, a pediatric specialist at Green Valley Medical Center, shared some valuable insights. First off, I must admit that I’ve been mistakenly calling it the stomach flu instead of a bug. Dr. Carter clarified that the correct medical term is viral gastroenteritis, which refers to inflammation in the stomach and intestines. This condition leads to the dreaded symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, and it’s not to be confused with the flu, which is caused by the influenza virus.
Gastroenteritis is not only common but also highly contagious. While it typically lasts a short time, it can be quite miserable. In children, the bug might last a day or two, but the diarrhea can linger for several additional days. Dr. Carter pointed out that gastroenteritis is particularly prevalent among kids because they tend to share germs and their immune systems are still maturing.
It’s nearly inevitable that children will catch a stomach bug at some point. To be prepared, many parents keep a stock of essentials on hand. Personally, my stomach bug survival kit consists of saltines, sports drinks, broth, and Jell-O—just like my mom stocked up on back in the ’80s.
These classic remedies are effective for a reason: vomiting and diarrhea lead to fluid loss, which can result in dehydration. To keep your child hydrated during bouts of vomiting, Dr. Carter recommends offering small amounts of fluids more often. This can include breast milk or formula for infants, while older children can have a variety of liquids. Additionally, maintaining some nutrition will aid in recovery, so offering small portions of food is wise. However, it’s best to avoid juices like prune, apple, or pear, as they can worsen loose stools. If your child doesn’t seem to improve, it’s important to consult a doctor.
“If you’re concerned about your child’s symptoms, especially if they seem unusual, don’t hesitate to reach out to your physician,” Dr. Carter advised. Seek medical attention for signs like blood in stool or vomit, early signs of dehydration (less frequent urination, dry mouth), or if vomiting persists for more than 2-3 days or diarrhea lasts over a week.
With kids back to mostly in-person learning, these common viruses are circulating more than they were last year. Dr. Carter noted that this winter feels more “normal” with various illnesses making a comeback, although local masking protocols may affect the spread.
As we continue the fight to keep our children healthy, Dr. Carter emphasizes the importance of vaccinations. “Vaccines are safe and effective in preventing many serious infectious diseases. I encourage all parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated according to current guidelines. Your pediatrician or family practitioner is a great resource for questions about your child’s health,” she said.
When a stomach bug strikes your home, keep a close eye on your child. It doesn’t hurt to let them have the remote for a bit, shower them with extra hugs, and provide their favorite stuffed animal for comfort.
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