Diarrhea and vomiting are common symptoms of many illnesses and conditions that can affect your toddler. Many illnesses are also associated with loss of appetite, while sore roof-of-the-mouth usually indicates a more specialized condition. Always call your pediatrician if your toddler shows these symptoms. Excessive diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, a serious condition that may require hospitalization.
Stomach Flu
Vomiting, diarrhea and nausea are common symptoms of stomach flu. Also known as gastroenteritis, stomach flu is usually caused by a virus, but can also be due to a serious bacterial infection. Loss of appetite is common with stomach flu, and your toddler's mouth may become sore due to irritation by stomach acids after vomiting. Stomach flu is one of the most common illnesses in children and can be serious if it leads to serious dehydration. Viral infections are typically treated with rest and fluids, while bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics.
Flu
Flu, or influenza, is a contagious illness caused by a virus. The disease can be extremely serious, especially for young children. Symptoms include fever, chills, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, body aches, fatigue and lack of appetite. Encourage your toddler to drink plenty of fluids such as water, broth and electrolyte beverages and to get plenty of rest. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to lower fever. If the fever-reducing medications do not keep her fever below 102 degrees Fahrenheit, she has difficulty breathing or she becomes dehydrated, call your doctor immediately.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
The hand, foot, and mouth – HFM – disease is another common illness among young children caused by a Coxsackie virus. HFM causes painful blisters in the mouth that lead to lack of appetite. Your toddler may also develop a rash on the soles of the feet and palms of the hand. Fever and other flu-like symptoms, such as diarrhea and vomiting, may also accompany the illness. Keeping your child hydrated is essential but may be difficult if your toddler refuses to eat or drink. Ice cream and popsicles tend to ease the pain in the mouth and you can offer these to your toddler.
Strep Throat
Strep throat is a common childhood illness caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Sore, red throat and mouth is a common symptom of the disease and is usually accompanied by lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and general ill feeling. Strep throat can be treated with antibiotics, but since viral infections, such as flu, can also cause the same symptoms, your pediatrician will perform a Strep A test to diagnose the condition.
