Let's talk about "stomach bugs" or Acute Gastroenteritis (AGE). Over the last week, a few of my kiddos have had the dreaded stomach bug.
AGE is defined as diarrhea (2 or more episodes), with OR without vomiting or fever. Nausea can also be involved. It is self-limited but anything over two weeks needs to be evaluated.
Red Flags for Gastroenteritis:
- Blood in stool
- Blood or greenish color in vomit
- Signs of dehydration (no wet diapers, dry mouth, lethargy)
- High persistent fever
Ginger for Nausea:
Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties and can be given as a mild warm tea or ginger ale (if carbonation is allowed to settle) for older children to help soothe an upset tummy.
.png)
