“Acute gastroenteritis is the most common cause of hospitalization in children under 3 years of age”

Specialist from Liv Hospital Ankara Pediatrics Department. Dr. Galip Erdem stated that viruses, bacteria and similar microorganisms can cause acute gastroenteritis and said, “It is more common especially in environments with poor hygiene conditions. The most common causative agent is the rotavirus. In children under 3 years of age, it is the most common cause of hospitalization.”

Liv Hospital Ankara Pediatrics Department Specialist. Dr. Galip Erdem made statements about Acute Gastroenteritis (AGE). Stating that acute diarrhea is a disease that is mostly seen in children in the 0-5 age group and most commonly affects children's health within the first 2 years of age, Uzm. Dr. Erdem said, “It is defined as softening of stool consistency or increased frequency (3-4 times a day or more). The increasing temperature in summer can prepare a suitable environment for the growth of some microorganisms and increase the infections that develop accordingly. The disease may be accompanied by fever, vomiting or abdominal pain and diarrhea may not exceed 7 to 14 days in general.”

“Rota virus may be the cause”

Stating that acute gastroenteritis can be caused by viruses, bacteria and similar microorganisms, Uzm. Dr. Erdem said, “It is more common especially in environments with poor hygiene conditions. The most common causative agent is the rotavirus. In children under 3 years of age, it is the most common cause of hospitalization. Rota virus vaccines are very effective in protection and the most important clinical finding in acute gastroenteritis is the emergence of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.”

“Nausea and vomiting may be observed”

Stating that the disease also progresses with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Uzm. Dr. Erdem said, “In the treatment of gastroenteritis and food poisoning, it is aimed to replace the water and salt lost by the body. In the treatment, it may be preferable to continue breast milk and formula in young children with medical treatment, as well as ensuring the change of fluid electrolyte balance, nutrition (frequent and less). In older children, we recommend yogurt, buttermilk, boiled potatoes, meat and rice foods, and plenty of water. Foods such as carrots and bananas should also be consumed. Nutrition should not be interrupted even if appetite decreases. In young children, excessive vomiting and severe diarrhea can sometimes be life-threatening. In serious cases, a doctor should definitely be consulted.”

“Attention should be paid to hygiene”

Explaining that hygiene should be very careful, Uzm. Dr. Erdem said, “Oral dehydration fluids and probiotics should be used. Low-fat and low-fiber foods should be taken until diarrhea improves, and foods rich in fat and fiber that cause the intestines to work more should be avoided.”