Acute Watery Diarrhea in Children: Everything Parents Need to Know

Introduction

Diarrhea is one of the most common health concerns in children, especially under five years of age. Acute watery diarrhea, if not managed properly, can lead to dehydration and complications. Dr. Ganesh Badge from Momstory Sahyadri Hospital, Hadapsar explains how to identify, treat, and prevent this condition at home and when to seek medical help.

What Is Acute Watery Diarrhea?

Acute watery diarrhea is defined as:

• Loose, watery stools passed more than 3 times a day

• Lasting for less than 7 days

• May be accompanied by vomiting or fever

Note:

• If stool frequency is high but well-formed, it is not considered diarrhea

• Exclusively breastfed infants may pass frequent watery stools, which is normal and not diarrhea

What Causes It?

The most common cause of acute watery diarrhea is viral infection—accounting for more than 60% of cases.

• Rotavirus is the leading cause in children under 5

• Other causes include bacterial and parasitic infections

Why Is It Dangerous?

With watery stools, the child loses not just fluids but also vital electrolytes (salts). If not replenished, this can lead to dehydration, which is categorized into:

1. No Dehydration

2. Some Dehydration

3. Severe Dehydration

Do You Need Tests?

Generally, no lab tests are needed for acute watery diarrhea.

However, tests are considered if:

• Diarrhea lasts more than 7 days

• There’s persistent fever or vomiting

• The child is immunocompromised

• Symptoms indicate severe infection (sepsis)

How to Manage It at Home

✅ For Mild Cases (No Dehydration):

• Use WHO-recommended low-sodium ORS

• Offer fluids after every loose stool

• Encourage home-based fluids like:

  • Coconut water

  • Rice water

  • Yogurt

  • Soft, easy-to-digest foods

  • Plenty of plain water

When Medical Help Is Needed

✅ Some Dehydration:

• Can often be managed in OPD with monitoring

Severe Dehydration:

• Requires hospitalization

• Child needs IV fluids and investigations

Zinc Supplementation: A Must for Recovery

Zinc helps reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea.

Recommended doses:

• Children 6 months to 5 years: 20 mg once daily for 14 days

• Infants 2–6 months: 10 mg once daily for 14 days

Do Antibiotics Help?

No. Antibiotics are not recommended for viral diarrhea.
They are prescribed only if:

• The baby is under 3 months

• Has severe sepsis

• Is immunocompromised

• Shows signs of bacterial infection

Takeaway for Parents

Managing acute watery diarrhea early with hydration, zinc, and monitoring is key. Hospital visits are required only in moderate to severe cases. Avoid overuse of antibiotics and focus on supportive care.

When to Visit a Doctor Immediately

• Persistent vomiting

• Inability to keep fluids down

• Dry mouth, sunken eyes, lethargy

• No urination in 6–8 hours

• High fever or blood in stools

For expert pediatric care, visit Dr. Ganesh Badge at Momstory Sahyadri Hospital, Hadapsar, Pune.