There is a handful to deal with as a parent. From regularly messy diapers to baby vomit, protecting them from injuries at home, and many more. Then there is food poisoning.
Although food poisoning only lasts for a couple of days, it is as uncomfortable and even painful for children as it is for adults. The question is, what do you do to manage food poisoning in children?
First and foremost, note that your child would have food poisoning after consuming foods and drinking water contaminated with viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Food poisoning is common in children younger than 5 because their immune system is not yet great at fighting germs. Children of that age do not have enough stomach acid to kill germs and break down foods.
What are the likely symptoms to notice? For food poisoning in children, your child can come down with symptoms from 30 minutes to 1 day after eating the contaminated food or drinking affected water. Symptoms include diarrhoea, nausea, pain in the stomach, fever, vomiting, headache, and weakness.
Similar to how it works for adults, most children have to deal with symptoms till they feel better. But because of their young age, vomiting and diarrhoea might make them feel really ill.
Home remedies for food poisoning in children
More often than not, children can get better without treatment. However, do well to speak with a doctor on Doctall if your child is displaying symptoms. Here, the doctor can help you with the right treatment and give you the go-ahead with your home care remedies.
Having established that, here are some home remedies for food poisoning in kids:
Ensure that your child stays hydrated
It is easy for children to get dehydrated. This is because they are younger than adults. If your child comes down with symptoms, your job is to give him or her enough fluids, especially water. Do not give your child caffeine, soft drinks, or milk. Give only small amounts of formula or breast milk for infants with food poisoning. You can also give them rehydration solutions.
Avoid dairy products and solid foods until diarrhoea gets better
Your child should not consume solid foods until your stomach settles. Do not give your kid milk and dairy products because they can worsen diarrhoea and stomach upset. When symptoms begin to wear off, introduce your child to light meals, not fatty foods like pap, bread, custard, oats, and biscuits.
Diet should return to normal after treating dehydration
Get back to your usual feeding pattern after your child successfully overcomes dehydration. Do not assume, speak with a doctor on Doctall. Give them the food they usually have in small portions for older kids. For infants, continue breastfeeding as long as they accept breast milk and bottle feed accordingly.
Your child needs plenty of rest
Because symptoms such as headache, vomiting, and diarrhoea can make kids feel tired, your child must have enough rest. As the symptoms wear off, do not rush your child back to school or send your kids out to play for hours. Adequate rest is vital to getting back to their normal state.
Food poisoning in children is one condition parents should look out for. If you are unsure of symptoms and need an expert diagnosis, speak with a doctor on Doctall. Remember to give your child fluids and let them rest to feel better.
