Food Poisoning in Children: Manifestations
Food poisoning in children is relatively common, specifically in children under the age of 5 years old as their immune system is less developed and cannot fight off food borne illness causing bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. The vast majority of these cases will not require any medical treatment; most cases are simply a waiting game until the illness is out of their system. However, this does not make the process anymore easier for parents as they watch their little one suffer. Below are some signs of normal food poisoning symptoms in children and some signs of when to get help.
Vomiting
Vomiting is a common symptom of food poisoning in children, along with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cramping. In children less than one year old, specifically less than three months old, vomiting should be carefully observed and noted. Projectile vomiting, meaning the vomit is being forcefully ejected, and causing your child pain, is a sign to contact your pediatrician. If the child is a newborn and also has a temperature of more than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, medical attention should be sought as this may be a sign of a dangerous infection.
Dehydration
Similar to adults, food poisoning can cause dehydration in children due to loss of fluids from vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms take a toll on the body, causing dehydration which is potentially dangerous in children. Symptoms of dehydration in children include a dry mouth, feeling weak or lacking energy, no tears when crying, and decreased urine production. Typically, a baby should wet their diaper at least once every six to eight hours. If your child is experiencing these warning signs of dehydration or if they cannot keep down any fluids, contact your pediatrician immediately or seek medical attention.
To prevent dehydration, parents should give their child lots of fluids. For infants, this means breastmilk or formula; children older than six months can also have plain water or electrolyte drinks, such as Pedialyte, at the discretion of your pediatrician.
Seeking Treatment
When it comes to seeking treatment for food poisoning in children, National food poisoning lawyer Ron Simon urges parents to always err on the side of caution, “It’s always best to keep in contact with your pediatrician when your child has food poisoning. They will advice you on the best course of treatment and when to seek medical attention if necessary. The most common treatment needed for food poisoning in children is rehydration to restore and balance the vital electrolytes your child needs.”
https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/food-poisoning/food-poisoning-in-children-what-to-know#1
https://www.wral.com/how-to-help-when-your-child-is-sick-to-their-stomach/19395836/
