Loose motions and vomiting are among the most common reasons children fall ill. Most episodes are caused by viruses and settle with fluids, oral rehydration salts (ORS) and zinc. The real danger is dehydration — and, very often, unnecessary antibiotics that can make things worse.
Signs parents notice
- Frequent watery stools, with or without vomiting
- Fewer wet nappies, dry mouth, no tears
- Sunken eyes, unusual sleepiness or irritability
- Blood in the stool or high fever
Common causes
- Viral gastroenteritis (such as rotavirus)
- Bacterial and parasitic infections
- Food intolerance after an infection
- Antibiotic-associated diarrhoea
- Long-standing diarrhoea from gut conditions that need evaluation
How Dr. Jenny evaluates & treats
- Assessing hydration and choosing the right rehydration plan
- ORS and zinc as per guidelines; continued feeding and breastfeeding
- Antibiotics only when there is a clear indication
- Stool and blood tests for persistent or recurrent diarrhoea
- Nutrition recovery advice after the illness
When to see a doctor
- Signs of dehydration or no urine for 6–8 hours
- Blood in stool
- Vomiting everything, including ORS
- Diarrhoea lasting more than 14 days
Serial: 01786-126908 · In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Watch: Dr. Jenny explains
Tummy & gut
শিশুর বারবার ডায়রিয়া? শুধু ওষুধে সমাধান নয় | পানিশূন্যতার লক্ষণ
Repeated diarrhoea and the signs of dehydration
Watch on YouTubeTummy & gut
বাচ্চার পেট খারাপের ভুল চিকিৎসা ও অ্যান্টিবায়োটিকের ক্ষতি
Wrong treatment of loose motions & the harm of antibiotics
Watch on YouTubeFrequently asked questions
Should I give an antibiotic for loose motions?
Most childhood diarrhoea is viral, and antibiotics do not help — they can disturb gut bacteria and prolong symptoms. Use them only when a doctor finds a specific reason.
This page gives general information for parents and is being reviewed by Dr. Ferdous Ara Jenny. It does not replace a consultation — every child is different.