How dehydration is recognized
Observe how much the child drinks and how much urine is passed compared with usual. Noticeably fewer wet diapers, a dry mouth, absence of tears and sunken eyes may indicate fluid loss. Unusual drowsiness or marked weakness is more worrying than the number of stools taken alone.
Infants, especially under 6 months, can become dehydrated more quickly. The risk increases when vomiting prevents fluid intake, losses continue or a chronic illness is present. The doctor assesses hydration through the history, examination and, when possible, weight.
When a prompt consultation is needed
Seek a prompt consultation if the child cannot keep fluids down, refuses the breast or bottle, passes very little urine, has blood in the stool or is getting worse. Vomiting without diarrhea, a very swollen abdomen or pain concentrated in one area call for assessment of other causes.
How oral rehydration is used
Oral rehydration solution contains ingredients in proportions suited to replacing fluids and salts. Prepare the product according to the instructions, with the exact amount of water. Do not make it more concentrated and do not add sugar, salt or fruit juice.
Give it often in small amounts, according to professional advice. One episode of vomiting does not necessarily mean oral rehydration has failed, but a persistent inability to drink requires reassessment. Severe dehydration may require hospital treatment, including fluids given by another route.
Feeding during illness
Continue breastfeeding. Formula is not diluted and is not changed without advice. When the child is hydrated and tolerates food, the usual age-appropriate feeding is resumed. Very restrictive diets and prolonged fasting should not be used as routine treatment.
Fruit juices, fizzy drinks or very sweet drinks may worsen diarrhea and do not replace oral rehydration. Excluding lactose is not required for every episode; it is discussed if symptoms persist or there are specific reasons.
Frequently asked questions from parents
How long does viral diarrhea last? Usually a few days, sometimes up to a week or slightly more. Hydration matters, not the number of stools. If diarrhea lasts more than 14 days, there is blood or the child is losing weight, assessment is needed.
Should I stop feeding? No. The child eats according to appetite as soon as they tolerate fluids; breastfeeding continues and formula is not diluted. Very restrictive diets or prolonged fasting do not help. Avoid very sweet drinks and fruit juices as a replacement for rehydration.
What color of vomit is worrying? Green (bilious) vomit or vomit with blood requires urgent assessment, because it may indicate bowel obstruction or bleeding. Repeated vomiting with a swollen abdomen or severe pain in one area also should not be delayed.
Do probiotics help? Evidence is limited and results depend on the preparation. They do not replace oral rehydration, which is the basis of treatment. Do not use them in children with reduced immunity without the doctor’s advice.
How can I stop it spreading in the family? Washing hands with soap and water after changing diapers, after the toilet and before preparing food is the main measure. Clean contaminated surfaces, wash soiled clothes separately and do not share towels with the sick person.
When can the child return to nursery or school? Usually when there has been no diarrhea or vomiting for 48 hours and the child feels well. Follow the health authority’s guidance for particular infections, especially when a bacterial or parasitic cause is suspected.
Tests and medicines
In uncomplicated gastroenteritis, blood tests and stool culture often do not change treatment. They may be needed when there is blood in the stool, a prolonged course, reduced immunity or a severe condition. Antibiotics are used only in selected cases.
Do not give medicines that stop diarrhea or anti-vomiting preparations on your own. Wash hands with soap and water, especially after changing a diaper and before preparing food. For return to nursery or school, follow the health guidance on limiting spread.
Care at Tirana Polyclinic: We offer pediatric consultation, interpretation of test results and follow-up of recovery. When rehydration at home is not safe or is not working, the child is referred to hospital care.
Key sources
This information is educational and does not replace a visit to the doctor. Do not change your treatment without consulting your doctor. Updated: October 2026.