Rotavirus Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of rotavirus infection is based on:
- Symptoms.
- Age of the child.
- The time of year.
- Information about close contacts who have rotavirus.
Your healthcare professional may take a stool sample for lab testing to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
There is no medicine to treat rotavirus infection. Anti-diarrheal medicines are not recommended for children.
Diarrhea from a rotavirus infection gradually improves but may last up to a week.
Preventing or treating dehydration is the most important treatment goal. Drinks designed to keep children hydrated include Enfalyte, Pedialyte and others. These provide water and important salts and minerals.
Use them as directed, and ask your healthcare professional any questions about using these products.
Serious dehydration may mean a hospital stay to get fluids directly into the bloodstream.
Self-care
A baby can continue regular breastfeeding or drinking formula as usual. Some infants who drink formula may benefit from a lactose-free formula.
Children can eat when they feel ready. Bland foods that may help include:
- Whole-grain breads or crackers.
- Lean meats.
- Yogurt.
- Fruits and vegetables.
Avoid the following:
- Fatty foods.
- Fruit juices.
- Drinks with added sugar.
- Sweets and desserts.
Preparing for your appointment
You'll likely see your primary care professional. If there are serious complications, you may see a specialist in digestive conditions, called a gastroenterologist.
What you can do
Preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your time during your appointment. Some questions you might want to ask the healthcare team include:
- What's the likely cause of these symptoms? Are there other possible causes?
- Is there a need for tests?
- What's the best treatment approach? Are there other options?
- Is there a need to take any medicine?
- How can I ease the symptoms?
What to expect from your doctor
Some questions your healthcare professional may ask include:
- When did symptoms begin?
- Have the symptoms been continuous, or do they come and go?
- How bad are the symptoms?
- Does anything seem to improve the symptoms?
- What, if anything, appears to worsen the symptoms?
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