What are the causes for diarrhea in 20-month-old?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 20-month-old daughter did not pass urine last week for above 24 hours, the next day she did urinate but also vomited. On the same day, she was having a fever of 102 F, so we went to the pediatrician. He gave Vomitab, Calpol, and an antibiotic injection.

For the past three days, the urine output has been normal, and the fever is gone, but now she has loose motions. Before taking the medicines, she was severely constipated. Now almost after six days, she vomited twice today and has diarrhea (three to four times today). She did not urinate since the afternoon. She vomited once before and after taking the medicines. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Please note that these must be two different infections. The reason why the child has not passed urine now is probably because of dehydration. It is advisable to give her six to seven tablespoons of ORS (oral rehydration salts) with the passage of each loose stool to maintain hydration.

You can check the hydration status by checking skin turgor on the skin of the tummy. If the skin goes back slowly, it means the child is dehydrated. The most important thing is to watch for lethargy and refusal to feed. If these signs are present it is advisable to get the child physically examined at the nearest facility.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.