Q: My child had watery diarrhea 4 times in under an hour. Should we wait until tomorrow to see a doctor and should they fast?

Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD

Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Question:

My child has had diarrhea four times in less than an hour. It is very watery and contains mucus. Is it safe to just observe them at home today and visit the hospital tomorrow? Also, should I withhold food and make my child fast right now?

Answer:

Having four episodes of diarrhea in under an hour is certainly a cause for concern.

You must closely monitor your child for any signs of dehydration. Please check for the following:

• Are their lips dry or do their eyes look sunken?

• Are there no tears when they cry?

• Are their diapers noticeably drier or are they urinating less than usual?

Go to the Emergency Room immediately if:

• Your child is under 6 months old and having repeated diarrhea.

• They have not passed urine for 8 hours or more.

• There is blood mixed in the stool.

• They are severely lethargic, floppy, or unresponsive.

Home Care Management:

1. Do not fast! Instead, provide hydration in small, frequent amounts.

2. Continue to offer breastmilk or formula as usual. You can also give an oral rehydration solution (electrolyte drink) in small sips of 5-10ml at a time.

3. Prevent diaper rash by changing diapers frequently and keeping the skin thoroughly dry.

4. Keep a written record of the frequency and amount of the diarrhea.

Do not wait until tomorrow and seek medical care today if:

• The diarrhea continues and is accompanied by vomiting.

• Your child develops a fever or shows any of the dehydration signs mentioned above.

If your child continuously refuses to drink fluids, or if they appear increasingly lethargic, please take them to see a pediatrician or visit the nearest emergency room right away for an in-person evaluation.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

fevercoach.us

Apple App Store

Google Play

🌐 Also available in: Español · 한국어