Christmas Day is synonymous with eating delicious treats and rich foods. If your child starts complaining of a tummy ache, it may be hard knowing if they have a stomach bug, or if they’ve just overeaten.
If your tot has tummy cramps, here’s how you can help your little one get better faster.
Be aware of Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen should never be given to children who are vomiting continuously, dehydrated, or suffering abdominal pain, according to well-known author Heidi Murkoff in What to Expect The First Year. Such blunders are common when treating gastrointestinal illnesses, which are often caused by a virus, and, less often by a bacterial infection. It’s important to keep a close eye on your little one because a stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting can sometimes mean a trip the emergency room.
Offer sufficient fluids
If you’re still breastfeeding, encourage liquids as often as possible. Breast milk contains substances that destroy many of the microorganisms that cause diarrhoea. Avoid forcing your child to drink large volumes of liquids all at once, as this might cause more vomiting. Start with a single teaspoon of water or an electrolyte drink (such as Rehidrat) or chipped ice every 15 minutes. Younger babies can have small amounts of fluid syringed into their mouths every 10 to 20 minutes.
Avoid sugar and dairy products
Since a baby with diarrhoea may develop a temporary lactose intolerance, consider switching to a lactose-free formula if she’s not on breast milk. The lactose in dairy products can irritate the stomach lining and cause bloating and cramps, so if your little one is on solids, avoid cow’s milk and cheese for a day or two. Also avoid sugary liquids such as colas, fruit juices, and athletic drinks, as these contain fructose which can irritate the stomach and worsen the diarrhoea. Stick to water and lactose-free formula or breast milk until the stomach bug subsides.
Be careful of over-the-counter medication to stop diarrhoea
Never give your child any medicine to stop the diarrhoea unless your doctor approves it, as some can have serious side effects and be harmful to young children, says Heidi. Even though medications such as Imodium and Kaopectate often help adults, these aren’t safe for babies or children under six. The only method beyond fluids and preventing dehydration that’s considered helpful for children is acidophilus, a type of good bacteria found in yoghurt. If you want to try this, add some good-quality, plain yoghurt with acidophilus to your child’s diet, but it’s important to speak to your doctor first.
Encourage your child to eat
Although it’s not a good idea to push solid foods too soon (especially if your child is vomiting), the faster she can resume her regular eating pattern, the better, says Heidi. For the first day or two, starchy foods, such as mashed banana, white rice, cereal, potatoes, pasta, and dry white toast, are all good choices, but it’s important to introduce small amounts of protein, such as white fish and chicken, as soon as your little one is feeling better. These foods contain vital nutrients, which will help to speed up recovery. Stay away from fatty, spicy foods for a while.
5 Signs your tot may need a doctor
Your child’s tummy issues will probably get better within a few days, but call your doctor right away if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Your newborn is vomiting and has less than five to six wet diapers a day.
- Your child is listless, with glazed eyes or dry, wrinkly skin.
- She has a high fever above 38˚C.
- You notice a serious loss of appetite that lasts a few days.
- She has dry mucous membranes (mouth and eyes).
