In developing countries such as Indonesia, diarrhea continues to be a serious health issue among children due to high rates of morbidity and mortality. Consequently, effective treatment is required.

Most cases of diarrhea in children clear up within 7 days, while 5 – 10% clear up within 7-14 days. Only about 5% of diarrhea cases take more than 14 days to get better. Acute diarrhea is defined as more than 4 loose bowel movements a day without the presence of blood. It may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting and at times abdominal pain or heartburn.

There are several responses to diarrhea, including oral or intravenous rehydration therapy to prevent dehydration, good nutrition to prevent malnutrition, and the prescribing of correct medication. For cases of acute diarrhea, medications containing probiotics and zinc (Zn) supplements are recommended. Probiotics are good bacteria which can help to eliminate the bad bacteria that cause diarrhea, while zinc is a micronutrient that has many functions, including decreasing the severity and duration of diarrhea, preventing diarrhea from recurring for 2-3 months and restoring appetite. The recommended dosage for children of under 6 months is 10 mg per day, and 20 mg per day for children aged 6 months and older.

Education also has an important role to play in preventing the recurrence of diarrhea. In this respect, it is important that parents understand the correct way to respond to diarrhea, which is not to stop the diarrhea but to improve the function of the intestinal mucosa as part of the digestive and absorptive processes. This is important so that parents do not change doctors if they feel the diarrhea is not getting better. Other important preventive measures include maintaining hygiene by washing hands frequently, consuming a well balanced diet and never forgetting immunization.

(Dr. Budi Purnomo, SpA(K) / RS AnakdanBundaHarapan Kita)