Treatment for pediatric enteritis includes rehydration, medication, and dietary management. Common causes include infection, improper diet, and weakened immunity. Rehydration can be achieved through oral rehydration salts or intravenous infusion to prevent dehydration. Common medications include antibiotics, antidiarrheals, and probiotics. Antibiotics target bacterial enteritis, antidiarrheals relieve diarrhea symptoms, and probiotics regulate the gut microbiota. The diet should be light and easily digestible, such as rice water, thin porridge, and cooked fruits and vegetables, avoiding greasy and spicy foods.
Infection is the most common cause of enteritis in children, and can be caused by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. Rotavirus and norovirus are the main pathogens, transmitted through food, water, or contact. Bacterial enteritis is often caused by Escherichia coli and Salmonella, while parasitic infections such as amoebae are also common. Diagnosing the type of infection is crucial for treatment. Viral enteritis is mainly treated symptomatically, bacterial infections require antibiotics, and parasitic infections require antiparasitic drugs.
Improper diet is also a significant cause of enteritis in children. Infant feeding errors, food allergies, or intolerances can all lead to intestinal inflammation. Overfeeding, feeding excessively cold or hot foods, and introducing complementary foods too early can irritate the intestines. Adjusting the diet is crucial during treatment. Infants should continue breastfeeding, and formula-fed children should choose easily digestible formulas. Older children should eat small, frequent meals, avoiding high-sugar and high-fat foods to ensure adequate nutrition while reducing the burden on the intestines.
A weakened immune system increases the risk of enteritis in children, with infants and young children whose immune systems are not fully developed being more susceptible to infection. Malnutrition, chronic diseases, or the use of immunosuppressants can weaken the immune system. To prevent enteritis, it is necessary to strengthen children's immunity by ensuring sufficient sleep, appropriate exercise, and supplementing with vitamins and minerals. For children with weakened immune systems, doctors may recommend the use of immunomodulatory drugs to reduce the chance of infection.
Treatment of pediatric enteritis should comprehensively consider the cause and symptoms. Fluid replacement is fundamental, medication should be used appropriately, dietary adjustments should not be neglected, and preventive measures need to be adhered to long-term. Parents should closely monitor changes in their child's condition and seek medical attention promptly to ensure the effectiveness of treatment.