The average child in America experiences two bouts of acute diarrhea each year, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. But, children can't take some of the same drugs and treatments that adults with diarrhea take. For example, some strong rehydration salts are too potent for children. Nonetheless, using a combination of rehydration remedies, vegetables and the right liquids helps treat diarrhea in children and prevents dehydration.
Oral Rehydration Solution
Oral rehydration solutions replace the electrolytes and fluids lost through diarrhea. Not all oral rehydration remedies are suitable for children. Powders, for example, tend to contain too high concentrations of minerals and salts. Choose remedies specially formulated for babies and children. Advice from the Children's Mercy Hospital and Clinics in Kansas suggests using only Infalyte and Pedialyte solutions. Both of these contain a mixture of fluids and electrolytes in the right balance for young children. Other useful products include Naturalyte and CeraLyte.
Diet
A child with diarrhea usually has a reduced appetite. She may also vomit more and struggle to keep food down. Your child may prefer certain foods and reject others. In general, bland and starchy foods work better than milky or strongly flavored foods, according to MedlinePlus. Foods with high fiber content also help to bulk up stools and slow down the speed of loose bowel movements. Try giving a child chopped carrots, whole fruit pieces or whole grain bread.
Homemade Solution
If you don't have any oral rehydration solution at home, you can mix an emergency version. This is only suitable if you have exact measuring equipment and no access to premixed solutions. The Mayo Clinic suggests adding 6 level tsp. of sugar, 1/2 tsp. of salt and a liter of fresh bottled water. Offer your child the fluid in tablespoons or small sips. Don't ask him to drink it like a normal cup of juice. When his urine turns clear, that means that he's approaching normal fluid balance.
Considerations
Mild diarrhea in children may clear up after 12 to 24 hours following home treatment; however, keep an eye out for the symptoms of dehydration or other complications. For example, if the diarrhea lasts more than a day, if the stool has any blood or thick mucus or if you child becomes listless and distant, call a doctor immediately. Similarly, a fever that rises above 102 degrees Fahrenheit is cause for concern and reason enough for a visit to the doctor.
