🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:
Response:
Calculated Shard: 19 (from laksa187)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:
Response:

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:
Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:
Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄
INDEXABLE
CRAWLED
10 days ago
🤖
ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

FilterStatusConditionDetails
HTTP statusPASSdownload_http_code = 200HTTP 200
Age cutoffPASSdownload_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH0.3 months ago
History dropPASSisNull(history_drop_reason)No drop reason
Spam/banPASSfh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0ml_spam_score=0
CanonicalPASSmeta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsedNot set

Page Details

PropertyValue
URLhttps://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/diarrhea-children
Last Crawled2026-04-09 06:25:24 (10 days ago)
First Indexed2018-07-10 07:29:56 (7 years ago)
HTTP Status Code200
Meta TitleDiarrhea in Children | Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Meta DescriptionDiarrhea is defined either as watery stool or increased frequency of stool — or both — when compared with a normal amount. It is a common problem that may last a few days and disappear on its own.
Meta Canonicalnull
Boilerpipe Text
What is diarrhea? Diarrhea is defined either as watery stool or increased frequency (or both) when compared to a normal amount. It is a common problem that may last a few days and disappear on its own. Diarrhea may be: Acute (short-term, usually lasting several days), which is usually related to bacterial or viral infections. Chronic (long-term, lasting longer than four weeks), which may have a variety of causes, such as irritable bowel syndrome , or may be due to chronic diseases such as ulcerative colitis , Crohn's disease , or celiac disease . Giardia may also cause chronic diarrhea. What causes diarrhea? Diarrhea in children may be caused by a number of conditions, including the following: Bacterial infection Viral infection Food intolerances or allergies Parasites Reaction to medications A gastrointestinal (GI) disease, such as inflammatory bowel disease A functional bowel disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome A result of surgery on the stomach or gallbladder Many people suffer "traveler's diarrhea" caused by a bacterial infection or a parasite, or even food poisoning. Severe diarrhea may indicate a serious disease, and it is important to consult your child's healthcare provider if the symptoms persist or affect daily activities. Identifying the cause of the problem may be difficult. What are the symptoms of diarrhea? The following are the most common symptoms of diarrhea. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Severe diarrhea may indicate a serious disease, making it important to consult your child's healthcare provider if any or all of the following symptoms persist: Cramping Abdominal pain Bloating Nausea Urgent need to use the restroom Fever Bloody stools Dehydration Incontinence The symptoms of diarrhea may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your child's healthcare provider for a diagnosis. What are the warning signs of severe diarrhea? You should call your healthcare provider if your child is less than 6 months of age or presents any of the following symptoms: Abdominal pain Blood in the stool Frequent vomiting Loss of appetite for liquids High fever Dry, sticky mouth Weight loss Urinates less frequently (wets fewer than 6 diapers per day) Frequent diarrhea Extreme thirst No tears when crying Depressed fontanelle (soft spot) on infant's head How is diarrhea diagnosed? In addition to a complete medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests for blood and urine, the child's healthcare provider may request: Stool culture to check for the presence of abnormal bacteria in the digestive tract that may cause diarrhea and other problems. A small sample of stool is collected and sent to a laboratory by your healthcare provider's office. In two or three days, the test will show whether abnormal bacteria are present. Blood tests to rule out certain diseases. Imaging tests to rule out structural abnormalities. Tests to identify food intolerance or allergies. Sigmoidoscopy , a diagnostic procedure that allows the healthcare provider to examine the inside of a portion of the large intestine, and is helpful in identifying the causes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, abnormal growths, and bleeding. A short, flexible, lighted tube, called a sigmoidoscope, is inserted into the intestine through the rectum. The scope blows air into the intestine to inflate it and make viewing the inside easier. What is the treatment for diarrhea? Specific treatment for diarrhea will be determined by your child's healthcare provider based on: Your child's age, overall health, and medical history Extent of the condition Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies The expectations for the course of the condition Your opinion or preference Treatment usually involves replacing lost fluids. Antibiotics may be prescribed when bacterial infections are the cause. To replace the body fluids that are lost with diarrhea, children should drink fluids liberally. If they are dehydrated, a glucose-electrolyte solution (for example, Pedialyte or Infalyte) should be given to help the body absorb fluid more easily. These fluids have the right balance of water, sugar, and salts, and some are available as popsicles. Avoid juice or soda because these drinks may make diarrhea worse. Too much plain water at any age can be dangerous. Do not give plain water to infants. If you are bottle-feeding or breastfeeding your child, continue to do so.
Markdown
[Skip to main content](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/diarrhea-children#main-content) ## Secondary [Go to CHOP.edu](https://www.chop.edu/) - [Research](https://www.research.chop.edu/) - [Careers](https://careers.chop.edu/) - [International](https://gps.chop.edu/) - [Donate Now](https://give2.chop.edu/give/241805/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=XXAI-eMainNav) - [MyCHOP Portal](https://mychop.chop.edu/mychart) ## Main navigation - Get Care Toggle sub-navigation - Patients & Families Toggle sub-navigation - Healthcare Professionals Toggle sub-navigation - [Locations](https://www.chop.edu/locations) - [Specialties](https://www.chop.edu/specialties) - Close Menu Get Care - [See all types of care](https://www.chop.edu/get-care) - [Schedule an appointment](https://www.chop.edu/appointment-scheduling) - [Find a doctor](https://www.chop.edu/doctors) - [Symptom Checker](https://www.chop.edu/symptom-checker) - [Get a second opinion](https://www.chop.edu/second-opinions) - [Conditions we treat](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases) - [Primary Care](https://www.chop.edu/primary-care-locations) - [Specialty Care](https://www.chop.edu/specialty-care-locations) - [Emergency Care](https://www.chop.edu/emergency-care-locations) - [Urgent Care](https://www.chop.edu/urgent-care-locations) - [Inpatient Care for Kids](https://www.chop.edu/inpatient-care-locations) - [Community Hospital Affiliates](https://www.chop.edu/community-affiliates) ### Find a research study Use this finder to learn more about the purpose of these studies and clinical trials, find out who can participate, and tell us you're interested in enrolling. [Search now](https://www.chop.edu/research-studies) - Close Menu Patients & Families - [Resources for families](https://www.chop.edu/patients-and-families) - [Caring for your child](https://www.chop.edu/caring-for-your-child) - [Request medical records](https://www.chop.edu/patients-and-visitors/obtaining-medical-records) - [Find research studies](https://www.chop.edu/research-studies) Navigating your visit [Inpatient stays in Philadelphia](https://www.chop.edu/philadelphia-campus/your-childs-inpatient-visit) [Inpatient stays in King of Prussia](https://www.chop.edu/king-prussia-campus/your-childs-inpatient-visit) [Health forms](https://www.chop.edu/primary-care-locations/health-form-requests) [Billing & insurance](https://www.chop.edu/billing-and-insurance) [Pay a bill](https://www.chop.edu/billing-and-insurance/online-bill-pay) [Family Health Coverage Program](https://www.chop.edu/billing-and-insurance/family-health-coverage-program) [Accepted insurance plans](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/billing-and-insurance/does-chop-take-my-insurance) [Get an Estimate for Services](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/billing-and-insurance/request-cost-estimate) ### Innovation and your child Led by the greatest minds in medicine our world-renowned teams are taking on the toughest diseases the world has ever seen. [Learn more](https://www.chop.edu/innovation-pediatric-healthcare) - Close Menu Healthcare Professionals - [Resources for professionals](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals) - [Continuing Education (CE) Portal](https://chop.cloud-cme.com/default.aspx) - [CE live courses](https://chop.cloud-cme.com/course/listing?p=1000) - [All upcoming events](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals/events) - [Clinical Pathways](https://www.chop.edu/pathways) - [CHOP OPEN (Recorded webinars)](https://open.chop.edu/) - [General inquiries](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/healthcare-professionals/contactus) - [Request a speaker](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals/book-a-speaker) Refer a patient [Submit referral form](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals/national-patient-services-referrals) [Referral toolkit](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals/patient-referral-toolkit) [International inquiries](https://gps.chop.edu/refer-a-patient) ### Find research studies Explore research studies available at CHOP that may be helpful to your patients. [Search now](https://www.chop.edu/research-studies/search) ## Sidebar - [Conditions](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases) - Innovation - [Our Breakthroughs](https://www.chop.edu/innovation-pediatric-healthcare) - [Research Studies](https://www.chop.edu/research-studies) - [Programs & Initiatives](https://www.chop.edu/programs-and-initiatives) - About CHOP - [About CHOP](https://www.chop.edu/about-us) - [Newsroom](https://www.chop.edu/newsroom) - [Awards, Accreditations, and Recognition](https://www.chop.edu/about-us/awards-accreditations-and-recognition) - [Inclusion and Belonging](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/inclusion-belonging) - CHOP Foundation - [Ways to Give](https://www.chop.edu/giving) - [Donate Now](https://give2.chop.edu/give/241805/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=XXAI-eMainSide) - [Your Impact](https://www.chop.edu/giving/your-impact) - [Get Involved](https://www.chop.edu/giving/get-involved) - [More Ways to Give](https://www.chop.edu/giving/more-ways-to-give) ## Secondary [Go to CHOP.edu](https://www.chop.edu/) - [Research](https://www.research.chop.edu/) - [Careers](https://careers.chop.edu/) - [International](https://gps.chop.edu/) - [Donate Now](https://give2.chop.edu/give/241805/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=XXAI-eMainNav) - [MyCHOP Portal](https://mychop.chop.edu/mychart) ## Mobile Navigation - Get Care - [See all types of care](https://www.chop.edu/get-care) - [Schedule an appointment](https://www.chop.edu/appointment-scheduling) - [Find a doctor](https://www.chop.edu/doctors) - [Symptom Checker](https://www.chop.edu/symptom-checker) - [Get a second opinion](https://www.chop.edu/second-opinions) - [Conditions we treat](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases) - [Primary Care](https://www.chop.edu/primary-care-locations) - [Specialty Care](https://www.chop.edu/specialty-care-locations) - [Emergency Care](https://www.chop.edu/emergency-care-locations) - [Urgent Care](https://www.chop.edu/urgent-care-locations) - [Inpatient Care for Kids](https://www.chop.edu/inpatient-care-locations) - [Community Hospital Affiliates](https://www.chop.edu/community-affiliates) - Patients & Families - [Resources for families](https://www.chop.edu/patients-and-families) - [Caring for your child](https://www.chop.edu/caring-for-your-child) - [Request medical records](https://www.chop.edu/patients-and-visitors/obtaining-medical-records) - [Find research studies](https://www.chop.edu/research-studies) - Navigating your visit - [Inpatient stays in Philadelphia](https://www.chop.edu/philadelphia-campus/your-childs-inpatient-visit) - [Inpatient stays in King of Prussia](https://www.chop.edu/king-prussia-campus/your-childs-inpatient-visit) - [Health forms](https://www.chop.edu/primary-care-locations/health-form-requests) - Billing & insurance - [Pay a bill](https://www.chop.edu/billing-and-insurance/online-bill-pay) - [Family Health Coverage Program](https://www.chop.edu/billing-and-insurance/family-health-coverage-program) - [Accepted insurance plans](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/billing-and-insurance/does-chop-take-my-insurance) - [Get an Estimate for Services](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/billing-and-insurance/request-cost-estimate) - Healthcare Professionals - [Resources for professionals](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals) - [Continuing Education (CE) Portal](https://chop.cloud-cme.com/default.aspx) - [CE live courses](https://chop.cloud-cme.com/course/listing?p=1000) - [All upcoming events](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals/events) - [Clinical Pathways](https://www.chop.edu/pathways) - [CHOP OPEN (Recorded webinars)](https://open.chop.edu/) - [General inquiries](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/healthcare-professionals/contactus) - [Request a speaker](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals/book-a-speaker) - Refer a patient - [Submit referral form](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals/national-patient-services-referrals) - [Referral toolkit](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals/patient-referral-toolkit) - [International inquiries](https://gps.chop.edu/refer-a-patient) - [Locations](https://www.chop.edu/locations) - [Specialties](https://www.chop.edu/specialties) - [Conditions](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases) - Innovation - [Our Breakthroughs](https://www.chop.edu/innovation-pediatric-healthcare) - [Research Studies](https://www.chop.edu/research-studies) - [Programs & Initiatives](https://www.chop.edu/programs-and-initiatives) - About CHOP - [About CHOP](https://www.chop.edu/about-us) - [Newsroom](https://www.chop.edu/newsroom) - [Awards, Accreditations, and Recognition](https://www.chop.edu/about-us/awards-accreditations-and-recognition) - [Inclusion and Belonging](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/inclusion-belonging) - CHOP Foundation - [Ways to Give](https://www.chop.edu/giving) - [Donate Now](https://give2.chop.edu/give/241805/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=XXAI-eMainSide) - [Your Impact](https://www.chop.edu/giving/your-impact) - [Get Involved](https://www.chop.edu/giving/get-involved) - [More Ways to Give](https://www.chop.edu/giving/more-ways-to-give) # Diarrhea in Children ## Breadcrumb - [Home](https://www.chop.edu/) - [Search Conditions](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases) - Diarrhea In Children # Diarrhea in Children [Learn more about the General Diagnostic Gastroenterology (GI) Program](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/general-diagnostic-gastroenterology-gi-program) ## What is diarrhea? Diarrhea is defined either as watery stool or increased frequency (or both) when compared to a normal amount. It is a common problem that may last a few days and disappear on its own. Diarrhea may be: - Acute (short-term, usually lasting several days), which is usually related to bacterial or viral infections. - Chronic (long-term, lasting longer than four weeks), which may have a variety of causes, such as [irritable bowel syndrome](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome-children "Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children"), or may be due to chronic diseases such as [ulcerative colitis](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/ulcerative-colitis-in-children "Ulcerative Colitis in Children"), [Crohn's disease](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/crohns-disease "Crohn's Disease"), or [celiac disease](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/celiac-disease "Celiac Disease "). Giardia may also cause chronic diarrhea. ## What causes diarrhea? Diarrhea in children may be caused by a number of conditions, including the following: - Bacterial infection - Viral infection - Food intolerances or allergies - Parasites - Reaction to medications - A gastrointestinal (GI) disease, such as [inflammatory bowel disease](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/inflammatory-bowel-disease "Inflammatory Bowel Disease") - A functional bowel disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome - A result of surgery on the stomach or gallbladder Many people suffer "traveler's diarrhea" caused by a bacterial infection or a parasite, or even food poisoning. Severe diarrhea may indicate a serious disease, and it is important to consult your child's healthcare provider if the symptoms persist or affect daily activities. Identifying the cause of the problem may be difficult. ## What are the symptoms of diarrhea? The following are the most common symptoms of diarrhea. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Severe diarrhea may indicate a serious disease, making it important to consult your child's healthcare provider if any or all of the following symptoms persist: - Cramping - Abdominal pain - Bloating - Nausea - Urgent need to use the restroom - Fever - Bloody stools - Dehydration - Incontinence The symptoms of diarrhea may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your child's healthcare provider for a diagnosis. ## What are the warning signs of severe diarrhea? You should call your healthcare provider if your child is less than 6 months of age **or** presents any of the following symptoms: - Abdominal pain - Blood in the stool - Frequent vomiting - Loss of appetite for liquids - High fever - Dry, sticky mouth - Weight loss - Urinates less frequently (wets fewer than 6 diapers per day) - Frequent diarrhea - Extreme thirst - No tears when crying - Depressed fontanelle (soft spot) on infant's head ## How is diarrhea diagnosed? In addition to a complete medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests for blood and urine, the child's healthcare provider may request: - Stool culture to check for the presence of abnormal bacteria in the digestive tract that may cause diarrhea and other problems. A small sample of stool is collected and sent to a laboratory by your healthcare provider's office. In two or three days, the test will show whether abnormal bacteria are present. - Blood tests to rule out certain diseases. - Imaging tests to rule out structural abnormalities. - Tests to identify food intolerance or allergies. - [Sigmoidoscopy](https://www.chop.edu/treatments/flexible-sigmoidoscopy "Flexible Sigmoidoscopy"), a diagnostic procedure that allows the healthcare provider to examine the inside of a portion of the large intestine, and is helpful in identifying the causes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, abnormal growths, and bleeding. A short, flexible, lighted tube, called a sigmoidoscope, is inserted into the intestine through the rectum. The scope blows air into the intestine to inflate it and make viewing the inside easier. ## What is the treatment for diarrhea? Specific treatment for diarrhea will be determined by your child's healthcare provider based on: - Your child's age, overall health, and medical history - Extent of the condition - Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies - The expectations for the course of the condition - Your opinion or preference Treatment usually involves replacing lost fluids. Antibiotics may be prescribed when bacterial infections are the cause. To replace the body fluids that are lost with diarrhea, children should drink fluids liberally. If they are dehydrated, a glucose-electrolyte solution (for example, Pedialyte or Infalyte) should be given to help the body absorb fluid more easily. These fluids have the right balance of water, sugar, and salts, and some are available as popsicles. Avoid juice or soda because these drinks may make diarrhea worse. Too much plain water at any age can be dangerous. Do not give plain water to infants. If you are bottle-feeding or breastfeeding your child, continue to do so. ### Contact the General Diagnostic Gastroenterology (GI) Program [Learn more about the General Diagnostic GI Program](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/general-diagnostic-gastroenterology-gi-program) Appointments and referrals [215-590-3630](tel:215-590-3630) Questions or for more information [267-425-2739](tel:267-425-2739) ## Related specialties and programs ## General Diagnostic Gastroenterology (GI) Program ## Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition ## Resources to help #### General Diagnostic Gastroenterology (GI) Program Resources [View General Diagnostic Gastroenterology (GI) Program Resources](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/general-diagnostic-gastroenterology-gi-program/resources) ![Doctor doing an exam to his young female patient.](https://www.chop.edu/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2025-03/Photo-GI-AshleyP-LiverTransplant-Patient-Team-2-2624x1720-v02.jpg?itok=D4r6hG-Z) ### Meet our team Our program is staffed by more than 30 pediatric gastroenterologists who are experts at diagnosing and treating children with common GI-related problems. [Get to know us](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/general-diagnostic-gastroenterology-gi-program/our-team) Feedback 3401 Civic Center Blvd.Philadelphia, PA 19104 ## Footer - [About CHOP](https://www.chop.edu/about-us) - [Careers](https://careers.chop.edu/) - [Our mission](https://www.chop.edu/about-us/our-mission) - [Innovation](https://www.chop.edu/innovation-pediatric-healthcare) - [Newsroom](https://www.chop.edu/newsroom) - [Get Care](https://www.chop.edu/get-care) - [Find a doctor](https://www.chop.edu/doctors) - [Find a location](https://www.chop.edu/locations) - [Find a specialty](https://www.chop.edu/specialties) - [Get a second opinion](https://www.chop.edu/second-opinions) - [Patients & Families](https://www.chop.edu/patients-and-families) - [Insurance & billing](https://www.chop.edu/billing-and-insurance) - [Price transparency](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/billing-and-insurance/price-transparency) - [Know my rights about surprise medical bills](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/billing-and-insurance/your-rights-and-protections-against-surprise-medical-bills) - [Caring for your child](https://www.chop.edu/caring-for-your-child) - [Healthcare Providers](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals) - [Refer a patient](https://www.chop.edu/healthcare-professionals/patient-referral-toolkit) - [Clinical pathways](https://www.chop.edu/pathways) [Ways to Give](https://www.chop.edu/giving) - [Get involved](https://www.chop.edu/giving/get-involved) - [Make a gift](https://give2.chop.edu/give/241805/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=XXAI-eMainFooter) **Directory** Appointments & Information [1-800-879-2467](tel:1-800-879-2467) Foundation [267-426-5332](tel:267-426-5332) Research [215-590-3800](tel:215-590-3800) Referring Physicians [1-800-879-2467](tel:1-800-879-2467) ### Sign up for newsletters Be among the first to know about our latest breakthroughs. [Subscribe here](https://www.chop.edu/family-newsletters/subscribe) ![US News Badge](https://www.chop.edu/sites/default/files/styles/original_160x_1x/public/2025-10/usnews-honor-roll-2025-2026-badge-418x480-v01.png?itok=nqW1LcRS) ![World's Best Specialized Hospitals - 2025](https://www.chop.edu/sites/default/files/styles/original_160x_1x/public/2025-04/Badge-SpecializedHospital-2025.png?itok=zRqExdf5) ![Magnet Recognized - American Nurses Credentialing Center](https://www.chop.edu/sites/default/files/styles/original_160x_1x/public/2025-01/ancc-marget-recognized-600x480-v01.png?itok=jbbbJDrs) ## Join the conversation. ## Language Assistance/Auxiliary Aids and Services Available - [English](https://www.chop.edu/nondiscrimination-notice) - [Español](https://www.chop.edu/nuestro-compromiso-con-las-poblaciones-diversas) - [العربية](https://www.chop.edu/nondiscrimination-statement/ar) - [繁體中文](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-chinese) - [Deitsch](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-pa-dutch) - [ગુજરાતી](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-gujarati) - [Deutsch](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-german) - [हिंदी](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-hindi) - [Italiano](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-italian) - [Tagalog](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-filipino) - [Polski](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-polish) - [Tiếng Việt](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-vietnamese) - [Français](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-french) - [Português](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-portuguese) - [नेपाली](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-nepali) - [한국어](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-korean) - [Русский](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-russian) - [Kreyòl Ayisyen](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-kreyol-ayisyen) - [українська мова](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-ukrainska-mova) - [తెలుగు](https://www.chop.edu/language-assistance-taelaugau) ## Sub-footer - [Terms of use](https://www.chop.edu/terms-use) - [Ethics & compliance](https://www.chop.edu/about-us/ethics-and-compliance) - [HIPAA notice of privacy practices](https://www.chop.edu/patients-and-visitors/protecting-patient-privacy) - [Privacy policy](https://www.chop.edu/privacy-policy) - [Feedback about website](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/about-childrens-hospital-philadelphia/feedback) - [Feedback about experience](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/about-childrens-hospital-philadelphia/family-relations-contact) - [Transparency in coverage](https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/billing-and-insurance/price-transparency) - [Website, Mobile Application, and Digital Asset Accessibility Statement](https://www.chop.edu/website-mobile-application-and-digital-asset-accessibility-statement) - [Notice of Non-Discrimination](https://www.chop.edu/nondiscrimination-statement) - [Financial Assistance Policy](https://www.chop.edu/services/financial-assistance-policy-summary) ©2026 The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is a charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. [Jump back to top](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/diarrhea-children#main-content)
Readable Markdown
## What is diarrhea? Diarrhea is defined either as watery stool or increased frequency (or both) when compared to a normal amount. It is a common problem that may last a few days and disappear on its own. Diarrhea may be: - Acute (short-term, usually lasting several days), which is usually related to bacterial or viral infections. - Chronic (long-term, lasting longer than four weeks), which may have a variety of causes, such as [irritable bowel syndrome](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome-children "Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children"), or may be due to chronic diseases such as [ulcerative colitis](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/ulcerative-colitis-in-children "Ulcerative Colitis in Children"), [Crohn's disease](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/crohns-disease "Crohn's Disease"), or [celiac disease](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/celiac-disease "Celiac Disease "). Giardia may also cause chronic diarrhea. ## What causes diarrhea? Diarrhea in children may be caused by a number of conditions, including the following: - Bacterial infection - Viral infection - Food intolerances or allergies - Parasites - Reaction to medications - A gastrointestinal (GI) disease, such as [inflammatory bowel disease](https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/inflammatory-bowel-disease "Inflammatory Bowel Disease") - A functional bowel disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome - A result of surgery on the stomach or gallbladder Many people suffer "traveler's diarrhea" caused by a bacterial infection or a parasite, or even food poisoning. Severe diarrhea may indicate a serious disease, and it is important to consult your child's healthcare provider if the symptoms persist or affect daily activities. Identifying the cause of the problem may be difficult. ## What are the symptoms of diarrhea? The following are the most common symptoms of diarrhea. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Severe diarrhea may indicate a serious disease, making it important to consult your child's healthcare provider if any or all of the following symptoms persist: - Cramping - Abdominal pain - Bloating - Nausea - Urgent need to use the restroom - Fever - Bloody stools - Dehydration - Incontinence The symptoms of diarrhea may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your child's healthcare provider for a diagnosis. ## What are the warning signs of severe diarrhea? You should call your healthcare provider if your child is less than 6 months of age **or** presents any of the following symptoms: - Abdominal pain - Blood in the stool - Frequent vomiting - Loss of appetite for liquids - High fever - Dry, sticky mouth - Weight loss - Urinates less frequently (wets fewer than 6 diapers per day) - Frequent diarrhea - Extreme thirst - No tears when crying - Depressed fontanelle (soft spot) on infant's head ## How is diarrhea diagnosed? In addition to a complete medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests for blood and urine, the child's healthcare provider may request: - Stool culture to check for the presence of abnormal bacteria in the digestive tract that may cause diarrhea and other problems. A small sample of stool is collected and sent to a laboratory by your healthcare provider's office. In two or three days, the test will show whether abnormal bacteria are present. - Blood tests to rule out certain diseases. - Imaging tests to rule out structural abnormalities. - Tests to identify food intolerance or allergies. - [Sigmoidoscopy](https://www.chop.edu/treatments/flexible-sigmoidoscopy "Flexible Sigmoidoscopy"), a diagnostic procedure that allows the healthcare provider to examine the inside of a portion of the large intestine, and is helpful in identifying the causes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, abnormal growths, and bleeding. A short, flexible, lighted tube, called a sigmoidoscope, is inserted into the intestine through the rectum. The scope blows air into the intestine to inflate it and make viewing the inside easier. ## What is the treatment for diarrhea? Specific treatment for diarrhea will be determined by your child's healthcare provider based on: - Your child's age, overall health, and medical history - Extent of the condition - Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies - The expectations for the course of the condition - Your opinion or preference Treatment usually involves replacing lost fluids. Antibiotics may be prescribed when bacterial infections are the cause. To replace the body fluids that are lost with diarrhea, children should drink fluids liberally. If they are dehydrated, a glucose-electrolyte solution (for example, Pedialyte or Infalyte) should be given to help the body absorb fluid more easily. These fluids have the right balance of water, sugar, and salts, and some are available as popsicles. Avoid juice or soda because these drinks may make diarrhea worse. Too much plain water at any age can be dangerous. Do not give plain water to infants. If you are bottle-feeding or breastfeeding your child, continue to do so.
Shard19 (laksa)
Root Hash3983969987610961419
Unparsed URLedu,chop!www,/conditions-diseases/diarrhea-children s443