Can I give anti-diarrheal to my child?

Do not give over-the-counter anti-diarrheals to young children without medical advice. Focus on ORS and assessment by a clinician.

When can my child return to normal activities?

After hydration is adequate, fever subsides, and energy returns. Go slowly with food and rest.

Do I need stool tests?

Not always. Tests are considered if symptoms are prolonged, severe, or atypical—your doctor will advise.

Bali Belly in Children: Hydration, Red Flags & When to Call a Doctor (2025)

TL;DR

Children can dehydrate faster. Offer frequent small sips of ORS; continue feeding with simple foods. Watch for red flags: lethargy, sunken eyes, no tears, very little urine, blood in stool, or persistent vomiting.

Hydration Tips for Children

Offer 5–10 ml ORS every 5–10 minutes; increase as tolerated.
Use a spoon or syringe for small children.
Breastfeeding should continue.

Food During Recovery

Usual foods if tolerated: rice/congee, bananas, yogurt, lean protein.
Avoid sugary drinks and unpasteurized juices.

Red Flags (Seek Care)

Very drowsy/irritable, sunken eyes, dry mouth/no tears
Minimal urination (<3 wet nappies in 24h)
Persistent vomiting, blood in stool, high fever

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TL;DR

Hydration Tips for Children

Food During Recovery

Red Flags (Seek Care)

Medical references