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Uncomplicated diarrhoea (Paediatrics)

Very low urgency
Common-

Passing of abnormally liquid stools with an increase in frequency and/or quantity that does not pose a health risk.

It can be infectious due to eating in poor conditions or stress.

It is usually not associated with other symptoms (such as severe pain, blood or mucus in the stools, fever, apathy, etc.).

It is diagnosed clinically by interview and physical examination.

Treatment is based on a soft, astringent diet and good hydration.

Bibliographic references
  1. Jason B Harris, MD, MPH. Mark Pietroni, MA, MBB. Chir, FRCP, DTM&H. Approach to the child with acute diarrhea in resource-limited countries. UpToDate. Oct 27, 2016.
  2. Mark A Gilger, MD. Pathogenesis of acute diarrhea in children. UpToDate. mar 11, 2016.
  3. David O Matson, MD, PhD. Acute viral gastroenteritis in children in resource-rich countries: Management and prevention. UpToDate. Apr 25, 2016.
  4. Thielman NM, Guerrant RL. Clinical practice. Acute infectious diarrhea. N Engl J Med 2004; 350:38.
  5. Michael Camilleri, Joseph A. Murray. Diarrea y estreñimiento. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 1. 19ª Edición. 264:268.
  6. S. Navarro Colás. Diarrea y malabsorción. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen II. Duodécima edición. 149:157.
  7. Antonio Guardiola Arévalo, Maria José Pérez-Grueso Macías, Alejandro Repiso Ortega. Diarrea aguda. Manual de protocolos y actuación en urgencias. Hospital Virgen de la Salud, Complejo Hospitalario de Toledo. Tercera edición. 2010.419:423.
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Diarrhoea

    Increased bowel movements

    Localised abdominal pain

    Abdominal flatulence

Symptoms to watch out for

More than 6 liquid bowel movements in 24 hrs
Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)
Irritability or reduced response to stimuli
Antibiotics use during the last 3 months
Dehydration signs: more fatigued than usual, dizziness, dry mouth and tongue.

Self-care

The first 3 days follow an astringent diet (eat pasta, rice, baked or boiled potatoes, chicken, skinless boiled turkey, white fish, eggs, yogurts) and then continue with your diet without restrictions.
Maintain hydration of 2L per day. Avoid soft drinks and fruit juices with high sugar content.
Washing your hands is an effective way to prevent the spread of infections.
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