Dehydration is a serious consequence of diarrhea that should be addressed immediately. Replacement of fluids and electrolytes is required for children who suffer from dehydration. Infants and small children need more than water for adequate rehydration, because they require an influx of sodium, potassium, sugar and other elements. Parents who suspect dehydration should consult a physician about the best way to rehydrate a child. Sports drinks, which include sodium and potassium, can help restore fluid balance and cardiovascular functioning in the body. Other fluids used to replenish the body after dehydration include fruit juices, broth and carbonated beverages that have gone flat (contain no fizz). Caffeinated beverages should not be used, as they deprive the body of both salt and water.

In some cases, a physician may recommend that a child use an over-the-counter pediatric oral rehydration solution to replenish lost nutrients. These solutions contain water and salts that help replenish electrolyte and salt balances. In addition, they contain glucose and another carbohydrate (such as rice powder) that help enhance absorption in the intestinal tract. The physician will explain how this solution is to be given to the child. It usually can be given safely in generous amounts.

Generally, women who are breastfeeding or are using formula are urged to continue their routine. In some cases, formula-fed babies and children eating solid foods may go through a short period where a rehydrating solution replaces or supplements other foods.

Intravenous (into a vein) rehydration given in a hospital emergency room over the course of several hours may be necessary for infants who are profoundly dehydrated.

In general, treatment for diarrhea will depend on its cause. Diarrhea caused by a viral infection will not respond to antibiotics and will most likely resolve itself within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the severity of the diarrhea. Bacterial infections causing diarrhea may be treated with antibiotics.

Children with diarrhea should avoid dairy products for three to seven days. In addition, they may benefit from eating bland foods for the first 24 hours, including bananas, rice, applesauce, toast and unsweetened cereals. Other foods can gradually be added over the next 48 hours. Most children resume a normal diet about three days after diarrhea ceases. 

If diarrhea is the result of invasive bacteria, such as salmonella, antibiotics are sometimes used – especially in very young children or children with compromised immune systems or cardiovascular problems. For chronic diarrhea that is the result of intestinal disorders, specific medical treatment of those disorders may be required.

Many cases of diarrhea can be resolved through changes to diet. Removing caffeine products from the diet, for example, may relieve some forms of chronic diarrhea. Dairy products, foods high in simple sugars (e.g., sweetened cereals) and foods high in fat are other foods that, if removed or limited in a patient’s diet, can help relieve diarrhea. Bananas, pears, and boiled or mashed potatoes are good sources of potassium, which may be depleted in a person with diarrhea. Adding these food products to a patient’s diet can help restore the balance of nutrients.

Any changes in diet should not involve reducing a child’s overall food intake if the child is at a healthy weight. Although eating may increase a child’s diarrhea, it is an important part of maintaining a child’s weight and helping the child to recover more quickly.