Your Child Caught the Nasty Stomach Bug: What Should You Do?

Navigating the Dreaded Stomach Bug This Winter

pregnant woman in black shirt holding her belly

Ah, the stomach bug—there’s truly nothing worse, is there? I think we can all agree that nobody enjoys this unpleasant experience. It’s uncomfortable, exhausting, and downright messy. This situation is even more challenging when you have kids. Not only do they struggle to make it to the bathroom in time, but the bug can take a swift toll on their little bodies. As parents, it’s crucial to be prepared. So, what should we do? I reached out to an expert for guidance.

Dr. Lisa Johnson, an associate professor in pediatrics at Springfield University School of Medicine and the Medical Director at Greene Pediatric Center, shared some valuable insights. First, I must admit that I mistakenly referred to it as the stomach flu; however, Dr. Johnson clarified that the correct term is viral gastroenteritis, which refers to inflammation of the stomach and intestines. This condition leads to the dreaded symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, and it’s not caused by the influenza virus, hence it’s not the stomach flu.

Gastroenteritis is not only common but incredibly contagious. While it typically resolves quickly, it can be quite miserable for little ones. According to Dr. Johnson, children may experience the bug for a day or two, but lingering diarrhea can stick around for a few extra days. It’s more prevalent in kids due to their frequent germ-sharing and still-developing immune systems.

Inevitably, our children will encounter a stomach bug at some point. To be ready, many of us keep essential supplies handy. Personally, my go-to items in my stomach bug survival kit include saltines, sports drinks, chicken broth, and Jell-O. These staples have been trusted since my childhood in the ’80s for good reason: vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration.

To keep your child hydrated during bouts of vomiting, Dr. Johnson recommends offering small amounts of liquid more frequently. Infants can have breast milk or formula, while older children can enjoy a variety of liquids. It’s also crucial to maintain nutrition for healing, so introducing small amounts of soft food can be beneficial. However, avoid juices like prune, apple, or pear, as they could worsen loose stools. If your child doesn’t seem to improve, reach out to your pediatrician.

“You should always consult your physician if your child’s symptoms seem unusual. Seek medical attention for signs like blood in the stool or vomit, early dehydration indicators (like less frequent urination, dry mouth), or if vomiting lasts more than 2-3 days or diarrhea persists for over 1-2 weeks,” Dr. Johnson explained.

With many children back in in-person classes, these common viruses are making their rounds again, more so than last year. This winter feels more “normal,” with a variety of illnesses circulating, though experiences may vary based on local masking practices.

When a stomach bug strikes your home, keep a close watch on your child. It wouldn’t hurt to let them hold the remote, shower them with extra hugs, and have their favorite stuffed animal or lovey nearby for comfort.

For more insights, check out one of our other blog posts here.

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Summary:

The stomach bug, or viral gastroenteritis, can be a challenging experience for both children and parents. Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea, leading to dehydration, which requires careful monitoring and hydration. It’s essential to maintain nutrition and consult a physician if symptoms appear severe or prolonged. Keeping comfort items nearby can also help ease your child’s discomfort during this unpleasant time.

Keyphrase: stomach bug in children

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