How to manage severe diarrhea?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 6-year-old son has been super sick since last night. He has been throwing up nonstop and cannot even keep sips of water down. Now he is just lying there super weak and barely talks. Diarrhea is so bad, too. We thought it was just food poisoning, but it has been 12-plus hours, and he looks pale and kind of dazed (confused or not able to think clearly). His lips look dry, and he has not peed all day. Should we rush him to the emergency room (ER) or wait it out? At what point are intravenous (IV) fluids needed? What signs mean he is too dehydrated?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I have reviewed your case history and advise you to do the following:

He is already very dehydrated, as you explained. You should visit the emergency room (ER) for intravenous (IV) fluids and anti-vomiting medicine.
He is very young, so the risk of dehydration complications is high, like kidney injury leading to low urine output and electrolyte imbalance, considering profound diarrhea.
Home remedies usually work for simple diarrhea, but it is the dehydration that we will have to prevent, which can cause complications.
In the hospital, relevant laboratories can be ordered, too, considering his response to IV fluids and medication.

Kindly consult a specialist doctor, talk with them, and take proper guidance.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.