What are the symptoms and treatment of viral gastroenteritis in infants?

Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis in infants include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, signs of dehydration, lethargy, and others. Treatment methods include fluid replacement to prevent dehydration, symptomatic supportive care, regulation of intestinal flora, protection of the intestinal mucosa, and dietary adjustments. Most cases are self-limiting; however, prevention and management of complications are crucial. If an infant shows signs of severe dehydration, persistent high fever, or bloody stools, immediate medical attention is recommended.

1. Symptoms of Viral Gastroenteritis

1. Diarrhea: Increased frequency of bowel movements, up to 5–10 times per day, with loose, watery, or egg-drop-soup-like stools. There is typically no obvious mucus or blood. Some infants may have small amounts of milk curds or foam in the stool.

2. Vomiting: Often occurs before diarrhea. Infants tend to vomit after feeding, with vomitus consisting of milk or gastric contents. Severe cases may involve frequent vomiting leading to difficulty in feeding.

3. Fever: Usually low-grade to moderate fever, with body temperature ranging from 37.5°C to 39°C. Certain viral infections, such as rotavirus, may cause high fever. Fever typically lasts 1–3 days.

4. Signs of Dehydration: Reduced urine output, dry lips, absence of tears when crying, decreased skin elasticity. In severe cases, symptoms may include sunken eyes, extreme lethargy, and other signs of severe dehydration.

5. Lethargy: Due to loss of energy and fluids from diarrhea and vomiting, infants may appear drowsy, irritable, less responsive to external stimuli, and show reduced interest in feeding or activity.

2. Treatment of Viral Gastroenteritis

1. Fluid Replacement to Prevent Dehydration: For mild dehydration, use oral rehydration salts (ORS), administered in small, frequent amounts. Moderate to severe dehydration requires intravenous fluid therapy to rapidly restore fluids and electrolytes and prevent shock.

2. Symptomatic Support: Use physical cooling methods for high fever; administer antipyretic medications as directed by a physician if needed. Temporarily withhold food for 1–2 hours in cases of severe vomiting, then resume feeding with small, frequent meals once symptoms improve.

3. Regulation of Intestinal Flora: Administer probiotics under medical guidance to help balance gut microbiota, improve digestion and absorption, and shorten the duration of diarrhea.

4. Protection of the Intestinal Mucosa: Use smectite powder to adsorb viruses and toxins in the intestine, reduce intestinal irritation, and alleviate diarrhea symptoms. This should be taken at least 1–2 hours apart from other medications.

5. Dietary Adjustment: Continue breastfeeding on demand. For formula-fed infants, switch to a lactose-free formula temporarily. Avoid introducing new complementary foods to reduce digestive burden on the intestines.

During care, promptly clean the infant’s vomit and feces and maintain good hand hygiene. After each bowel movement, wash the buttocks with warm water and dry thoroughly to prevent diaper rash. Keep the abdomen warm to avoid chilling and ensure the infant gets adequate rest to support recovery of intestinal function.