Coronavirus has been an eye-opening phenomenon for everyone. Its increasing causes and symptoms have baffled even the brightest of the minds. Every other day, you read new things about the virus – new signs, attempts at medicines, and mind-boggling revelations that frighten each and every one of us.
One of the most affected sections of the population is the one below the age of ten. And the newest revelation is that gastro problems are a symptom of COVID-19. Does this mean you should rush to your pediatric gastroenterologist in Chennai on noticing related symptoms?
Let’s know more about this supposed symptom for COVID-19.
Is gastro a symptom of the coronavirus disease in kids?
Although gastro and diarrhea aren’t as commonly seen as the other common signs of COVID-19 — fever and respiratory symptoms (i.e. runny nose, difficulty breathing) — diarrhea is seen in some children with the disease. However, diarrhea can also be caused due to other reasons, such as stress, food poisoning, etc. all of which can be taken care of with a visit to a pediatric gastroenterologist in Chennai. There’s probably no need for worry unless your child has diarrhea along with the other COVID-19 symptoms.
What should parents know about COVID-19 prevention in kids with digestive diseases?
Parents of children with a chronic gastrointestinal (GI) condition, like celiac disease, liver disease, or inflammatory bowel disease, may have to be more careful when it comes to COVID-19. The most vital thing to remember is the significance of thorough handwashing. COVID-19 can spread through stool, so it’s extremely crucial to practice good hand hygiene while changing a diaper or after going to the bathroom.
If your child has a chronic gastrointestinal ailment, he or she should stay on their medicines. If your pediatric gastroenterologist in Chennai has prescribed any medication, you should continue them at all costs. If you stop them before the suggested course, the problems may backfire. This can cause the GI disease to get out of control, which could raise the risk of contracting COVID-19.
The following are symptoms that children might experience:
- Fever: Although adults report fever with coronavirus, fevers are somewhat less common among children.
- Flu-like symptoms: A majority of kids with coronavirus had fever, cough, or shortness of breath. According to survey data, 43% of adults and just 13% of children had this particular symptom.
- Respiratory tract: Children with mild forms of coronavirus may exhibit a runny nose, cough, or sore throat.
- Digestive symptoms: Some children develop vomiting, diarrhea, or nausea.
- Changes in the sense of smell: According to survey data, most children with COVID-19 lose their sense of smell.
- Pain: Children with COVID-19 may experience muscle pain or a headache.
- Behavioral changes: Children may be moody or cry more often, especially if they are too young to express their emotions or identify their symptoms verbally.
If your child exhibits GI symptoms, there are plenty of gastroenterologists in Chennai. Lastly, make sure that you look out for any symptoms of COVID-19 to prevent any severe mishaps.
