What could cause diarrhea and vomiting in a 2-year-old?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Your child has acute gastroenteritis.

1. Continue breastfeeding (very important). Breastfeeding should be continued frequently.

2. ORS (oral rehydration solution)– Do not force the child if the child refuses. Give small sips:

5 to 10 ml (one to two teaspoons) every five to 10 minutes. Use a spoon or a syringe. You can try ORS chilled or with a different cup.

3. Zinc supplementation: Zinc 20 mg once daily for 14 days.

4. Food-

• Mashed banana.

• Rice.

• Khichdi.

• Yogurt.

• Do not force-feed.

• Avoid juices, fizzy drinks, and sugary foods.

5. No antibiotics needed unless advised by the doctor. No antidiarrheal medicines (e.g., Loperamide). Probiotics may be used if prescribed.

• The probable causes: Viral (Rotavirus), antibiotic-associated diarrhea (if the child uses antibiotics), and bacterial infection.

• Investigations to be done: None.

• Differential diagnosis: Acute gastroenteritis, bacterial (less likely), antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

• Probable diagnosis: Acute gastroenteritis.

• Treatment plan: Breastfeeding, ORS, and zinc.

• Regarding follow-up: If the child stops breastfeeding, has repeated vomiting, shows signs of dehydration, has blood or mucus in stools, has a fever (more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), or becomes lethargic or unusually sleepy, immediately consult a pediatrician.

• Preventive measures: Breastfeeding and avoiding juices and sugary foods.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.