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Acute Diarrhea

Acute diarrhea is the second leading cause of death in children under five. The majority of deaths occur in developing countries where resources are limited. Even though, the disease is easy to be treated and prevented, lack of clean water, poor hygiene in the under-developed world make it difficult to reduce the mortality and morbidity.

Most cases of acute diarrhea are caused by virus which is usually self-limited. However, some cases antibiotic is needed especially when the child is passing stool with mucus or blood.

Major complications of acute diarrhea are:
  • Dehydration
  • Electrolytes imbalance
Failure to recognize and treat these two complications properly, mortality rate is high. On the other hand, promptly correct dehydration and electrolytes imbalance, death is uncommon.
Children who can tolerate with oral re-hydration, can be safely treated at home but need to be re-evaluate by doctor if diarrhea persist.

WHO recommend ORS solution as a standard fluid for health care center and home therapy for those who can tolerate with oral intake. It is widely available in the community.

How much to give ORS?
Give slowly and as much as the child can tolerate. The child will likely to vomit if you give too much. If your child vomit everything after feed or become weaker, you should bring him/her to the nearest hospital as soon as possible.

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