Intestinal dysbacteriosis in a child: symptoms and methods of treatment. Treatment of dysbacteriosis in children: drugs and folk recipes Causes of dysbacteriosis in children after a year


In children under one year of age, intestinal dysbacteriosis often develops. The microflora of the baby is formed thanks to the mother. Orphans who are bottle-fed are at risk. The process ends at 2 years, when the composition of the biocenosis strongly resembles the biota of adults. Therefore, the treatment of a child aged 6 years is approached similarly to that of an adult. The only difference is that a small patient often cannot clearly describe the symptoms.

For these reasons, it is logical to divide the reported cases into two global categories: before 1 year of age and after one year of age. There is an additional nuance mentioned in the review on infants. Differences in the microflora are observed depending on the method of feeding (artificial or natural). A one-year-old child who was fed with milk mixtures has an opportunistic flora that is not observed in breast-fed infants. The reason is the content of harmful strains in external food (except for women's milk).

Conduct a simple experiment, try to gently push the stomach along the colon (a form of the Greek Omega). The presence of pain is already recognized as a symptom of dysbacteriosis. Doctors say that 90% of the population suffers from the disease. Only one in ten in the family gets a chance to be healthy.

Intestinal dysbacteriosis is accompanied by a decrease in the protective functions of the microflora when a pathogenic strain is added. Due to what happened, the obligate part of the microflora ceases to perform the following functions:

  1. Vitamin production.
  2. They act as a catalyst for the absorption of calcium, iron, vitamin D.
  3. Participants in the water-salt exchange.
  4. Absorption of toxins.
  5. Production of immunoglobulins.
  6. Deactivation of food enzymes.
  7. Finish the breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates, RNA, DNA, fats.

Obligate microflora ceases to perform these actions. The most prominent is function number 3. Disturbance of electrolyte metabolism causes diarrhea. Against the background of diarrhea, a lack of vitamins appears, causing a bunch of new symptoms. Signs that are easy to see:

  1. Anemia (especially fingers, lips).
  2. Peeling of the skin on the face.
  3. Bad mood, with differences.
  4. Fatigue, weakness due to lack of calcium.

Violation of the mechanism of production of immunoglobulins undermines the body's defenses. No wonder it was noted that taking bifidobacteria accelerates recovery from colds. Finally, the body begins to become infected with toxins. In addition to the deterioration of absorption in the colon, peristalsis is weakly expressed. Fecal masses stagnate, poisoning the body. Malakhov gives startling figures: some stones from excrement rot for years, and the time spent in the large intestine is measured in decades.

It is easy to imagine how many problems are manifested against the background of such unfavorable conditions. Today it is believed that dysbacteriosis provokes cancer. The above symptoms are not the only ones. Let us describe in addition three isolated states, which, due to their peculiarities, have received their own names.

Dyspepsia

In the literature, dyspepsia is described as a complex of unpleasant symptoms from the gastrointestinal tract. Obvious signs:

  1. Heartburn.
  2. Nausea, vomiting.
  3. Belching.
  4. Unpleasant taste in the mouth.
  5. Constipation or diarrhea.
  6. Flatulence.

Feces of unusual consistency, liquid, reminiscent of sheep's droppings. Often has an unpleasant or sour smell. The color is different, there may be impurities of blood, mucus. The appearance of feces depends on the causative agent of the disease. In the case of associated dysbacteriosis, stools are frequent (up to 12 times per day), watery, often accompanied by vomiting.

When infected with Proteus, the stool is relatively rare (up to 8 times), it foams, the color is shifted to green. There is an unpleasant odor. The growth of staphylococcus aureus causes blood impurities. The stool is foamy, mucus is present. The difference between the symptoms caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa is in the presence of a similar shade of pus (bluish).

anorectal syndrome

Most commonly provoked by antibiotics. It is characterized by burning and itching around the anus, in the rectum, discharge of blood and mucus, false urge to defecate, dull pain. Signs resemble hemorrhoids. The temperature often rises.

Intestinal malabsorption

Typical signs of beriberi develop (B, PP, K, D) and calcium deficiency. Numb lips, fingers, toes. The lack of nicotinic acid causes depression, apathy, mood swings, increased flow of saliva, the tongue is red and inflamed. The presence of fatty masses in the stool. Calcium deficiency caused by low intake of phylloquinone leads to general weakness.

Lack of thiamine disrupts sleep, causing neuritis. Riboflavin deficiency worsens the condition of the skin, stomatitis develops. Along with malabsorption, vitamin deficiency can develop independently, since bifidobacteria are involved in the production of PP, K and group B. The symptoms, at first glance, are similar, but the reasons that gave rise to them are different.

Bacteriological background

The causes of the disease lie in the composition of the intestinal microflora. First of all, the pathology is caused by a number of external and internal factors. Dysbacteriosis of children is usually divided into 3 degrees of severity:

  1. A slight decrease or constancy of the anaerobic flora, a change in the size of the Escherichia population. Conditionally pathogenic strains in the amount of 2 species show a maximum population density in the region of 1 million units. This form is called light, corresponds to the first degree.
  2. The number of anaerobes can be sharply reduced, compared with the total number of aerobic bacteria. Atypical forms of Escherichia coli appear, and the number of conditionally pathogenic strains continues to grow. The form is called moderate, doctors consider it clinical (you need to see a doctor).
  3. In a severe form, the population of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria suffers damage, disappearing completely. Among Escherichia coli, atypical forms predominate, the density of opportunistic flora is increased to 10 million units.

Before the manifestation of symptoms of dysbacteriosis in children in a pronounced form, the attending physician is able to see the bacteriological picture based on the results of the tests, voicing some of the recommendations. The first step is to find out which antibiotics the pathogenic flora is sensitive to, identifying an effective method of control. If there are two or more pathogens (associated form), one antibiotic may not be able to cope. Then the treatment regimen is complicated.

A broad-spectrum antibiotic is not suitable for treatment. It will kill the already weakened beneficial flora along with the pathogen. It is easier to cure dysbacteriosis in a child with the help of a point, directed effect. This method is considered to be gentle. Especially if the trouble happened to a child at the age of one.

Doctors testify that the signs of dysbacteriosis in children do not correspond to the severity, depend on individual characteristics. Therefore, it is not worth focusing on external signs. You can not link the symptoms and treatment, often not the same.

The reasons

Causes by nature are divided into endogenous (internal) and exogenous (external). The group of external criteria includes:

  • Ecology.
  • Climate.
  • The quality of products in stores and gardens.
  • Hygiene.

External causes are as follows:

  • Pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract of the child, including those of a viral and bacterial nature (dysentery, cholera).
  • Reasons for taking medications. Predominantly bactericidal, hormones and antibiotics. Preparations based on salicylic acid favor the reproduction of atypical types of Escherichia coli.
  • Hereditary pathologies that violate intestinal absorption.
  • Wrong daily routine, stress, imbalance in the composition of nutrition in proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
  • Weakened immunity.

Everyone can name well-known bad habits. It is extremely rare to find children's dysbacteriosis caused by alcoholism, otherwise the causes of the disease are similar to those of the adult population. Try to reduce the use of food containing preservatives - homemade pickles do not count.

Treatment

Treatment of dysbacteriosis in children is complex.

  1. First of all, the patient's menu is checked. The diet is adjusted towards the content of useful components for the cultivation of normal microflora.
  2. Bacteriophages or antibiotics are prescribed to suppress the causative agent of the disease. The reason is a representative of conditionally pathogenic flora, overgrown. How to treat (name of the drug), the doctor decides based on the results of the analysis for the sensitivity of the strain.
  3. intestines in children is impossible without the use of prebiotics (a nutrient medium for bacteria) and probiotics (strains of live beneficial microflora). It is allowed to use general recommendations or be guided by analysis (composition of microflora). Usually, the emphasis is on the cultivation of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, Escherichia coli (Esherichia) grows without outside help.
  4. Detoxification is required periodically. Feces poison the body, it would be useful to take sorbents, offer the child activated charcoal.
  5. Reception of immunoglobulins increases immunity. This is an indispensable step, the body “knows” which bacteria are superfluous, but cannot overcome it. Help Wanted.
  6. Enzymes help to break down undigested substances (proteins, fats, carbohydrates).
  7. Vitamins are used against the background of shortage. Emphasis is placed on groups A and B, vitamins PP.

Preparations

Consideration of 6 drugs is enough to create an idea about the prescription of drugs.

Bifidumbacterin

In powder form, it is used to restore the population of bifidobacteria. Sold in ampoules, vials, appointed in a similar way:

  1. 1 year and younger - 2 doses daily during the working week (5 days).
  2. Up to 3 years - it is allowed to give already three times.
  3. At an older age, the treatment period, if necessary, doubles.

Bifidobacteria are part of the obligate flora, the functions of which are described in detail above. The mentioned type of bacteria forms the required level of pH factor, which prevents the reproduction of pathogenic strains, providing an acceptable level of health. Participate in the formation of vitamins, eliminating the characteristic symptoms of deficiency.

The task is to deliver the strain to the intestines. The lion's share of bacteria is destroyed in the stomach by digestive juice. Too high acidity of the environment kills most of the microorganisms. The survivors will be able to reproduce.

Lactobacterin

The same can be said about the preparation as about the previous one. With the exception of information about the attempt to restore the population of lactobacilli. Sold in ampoules, vials. To treat dysbacteriosis in a child, dilute with water, drink half an hour before meals. Reception scheme:

  1. Children under 1 year - twice a day, for three days.
  2. At an older age - the treatment course increases to 5 days.

Bifikol

It is a mixture of Escherichia coli and bifidocultures. The name comes from the Latin name Escherichia Coli and Bifidobacterium. The purpose is quite clear. Ampoules restore populations of bifidobacteria and E. coli.

Hilak-forte

One of the purposes of a prebiotic is the prevention of dysbacteriosis. It consists of many metabolites of normal flora (lactobacilli, streptococcus, E. coli), without changes reaching the intestines. It is intended to create an environment conducive to the reproduction of normal microflora, suppressing the growth of pathogenic and putrefactive strains. Suitable for infants.

Lactulose

In nature, this disaccharide (fructose + galactose) does not occur, the gastrointestinal tract is not digested. But bacteria are happy to use the substance as food. In medicine, it is used as a laxative, improves intestinal motility (antispasmodic).

Nifuroxazide

Local antiseptic that inhibits the vital activity of gram-negative and gram-positive microbes. The doctor chooses an antibiotic depending on the manifestations of dysbacteriosis in children. It is quite possible to prescribe nifuroxazide, if pathogens enter the spectrum of the drug.

We emphasize that the choice of antiseptic is made according to the results of the tests. It is not uncommon for mothers to give children Nifuroxazide as a panacea, being surprised that the child's dysbacteriosis does not go away, the symptoms intensify. Remember, the main task of complex treatment is to eliminate the imbalance. The ill-conceived use of medicines exacerbates the situation.

The analysis reveals a pathogenic strain, laboratory assistants determine the degree of sensitivity of the population to many known antibiotics, which allows the doctor to prescribe treatment.

In the human gastrointestinal tract, there is a microflora that plays an important role in the functioning of the body. It is formed from the moment of birth. They are Gram-positive and anaerobic bacteria. They participate in the assimilation of food, synthesize enzymes to improve digestion, help the absorption of trace elements, protect the child's body from various pathogenic microbes and block the reproduction of pathogenic flora. Up to 500 types of beneficial microorganisms live in a healthy intestine.

The balance in their ratio is vital. In a normal state, they protect the body from allergic reactions and support the immune system. With a balance of microorganisms, all processes are balanced.

Changing the ratio of these microorganisms causes dysbacteriosis in children. Partial or complete death of beneficial microflora leads to imbalance.

Reproduction in the body of pathogenic bacteria causes inflammatory reactions. The body of the child is weakened and becomes vulnerable to infections.

Almost always, this violation is the result of any phenomena in the body. At the initial stage, the disease is easily treated with proper nutrition, but in the future it can lead to complications.

For infants, this condition is especially dangerous. The consequences are unpredictable, can lead to various serious diseases. You should immediately contact a medical facility.

The main symptoms of dysbacteriosis in children

Children's dysbacteriosis is manifested by many symptoms. Signs of dysbacteriosis may be as follows:

  1. Lack of appetite, pain and heaviness in the abdomen, flatulence, stool disorder. Moreover, both diarrhea and is possible.
  2. Regurgitation, vomiting, unpleasant odors from the oral cavity.
  3. There are undigested food and mucus in the stool.
  4. Rashes may appear on the skin.
  5. The baby has a constant urge to defecate.

The reasons

The cause of dysbacteriosis in a child is an imbalance of microflora in the gastrointestinal tract. Improper nutrition of a nursing mother and child, replacement of breast milk with artificial, feeding the baby with food that is not appropriate for age can cause this disease.

Often. The cause of this disease can also be intestinal or cold infections, the ingress of allergens into the body, poor environmental conditions, prolonged use of hormonal drugs and various surgical interventions. Radiation therapy and the use of immunosuppressive drugs, chronic diseases of the colon can lead to an imbalance in the intestines.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dysbacteriosis in children, allowing to determine this disease:

  • stool disorder: diarrhea, constipation (alternation of these disorders);
  • cramping pain and bloating in the abdomen, flatulence;
  • lack of appetite;
  • frequent urge to defecate;
  • change in the nature of the stool (admixture of mucus, foam, pungent odor, undigested pieces of food);
  • belching, vomiting, bad breath (in young children - regurgitation after each feeding, colic);
  • lethargy, weakness, tearfulness;
  • growth retardation, weight loss, symptoms of dehydration;
  • allergic reactions: dermatitis, peeling of the skin, rashes;
  • signs of hypovitaminosis (bleeding gums, brittle nails and hair);
  • plaque on the tongue;
  • pallor of mucous membranes;
  • irritability, sleep disturbance;
  • metallic taste in the mouth.

In its symptoms, it is similar to other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Not always such symptoms indicate dysbacteriosis. The final diagnosis is made by a specialist on the basis of laboratory tests.

Degrees

There are 4 degrees of dysbacteriosis in a child.

  1. The first degree is characterized by a decrease in appetite, a delay in gaining, and sometimes weight loss in children, flatulence, constipation, uneven coloring of feces. Anaerobic microflora predominates; bifidobacteria over 107-108; harmful microorganisms no more than two types, 102-104 CFU per 1 g of feces.
  2. The second degree is manifested by pain associated with eating, belching, nausea and heartburn, decreased appetite and insufficient motility in the intestines, and bloating. There are constipation, pain in the epigastric region. The number of aerobic and anaerobic flora is equal, harmful microorganisms 106-107 CFU per 1 g of feces; useful Escherichia coli is replaced by hemolyzing and lactose-negative.
  3. In the third degree, fever, chills, headaches, gastrointestinal dyspepsia syndrome appear. The appearance of bacteria in the urine, bile is characteristic, the formation of foci of infection in the internal organs is possible. The predominance of aerobic flora is characteristic, up to the suppression of bifido- and lactobacilli; excessive number of pathogenic microorganisms.
  4. The fourth degree is characterized by the appearance of symptoms of intoxication, stool disorders, weight loss, signs of beriberi. The complete predominance of pathogenic microflora resistant to antibiotics is recorded.

With dysbacteriosis of the first and second degree, treatment started on time will save the child from problems in a short time.

Diagnostics


Diagnosis of intestinal dysbacteriosis in children is based on the data of a whole range of laboratory studies:

  1. Bacteriological examination of feces on a special nutrient medium. Sowing of the material is carried out to detect pathogenic flora, to diagnose a reduction in the number of normal symbionts, to identify the sensitivity of bacteria to drugs.
  2. Coprogram to determine the degree of digestion of food components by the intestines of the child and to identify signs of inflammation.
  3. Hydrogen breath test: determination of the concentration of hydrogen in the air exhaled by the child. The advantage of this method is to reduce the time spent on diagnosing the disease.
  4. Gas-liquid chromatography is prescribed to establish the species of anaerobic strains detected during analysis

Treatment

Treatment of intestinal dysbacteriosis in children must be carried out in a complex manner. It depends on the severity and causes of the disease and on changes that have occurred with the intestinal microflora. It is important to identify the underlying causes of this condition and rule them out in the future. A set of measures, depending on the type of pathology detected, can be dealt with by both a pediatrician and a gastroenterologist, an allergist or an infectious disease specialist.

The scheme of treatment of dysbacteriosis in children:

  1. Diet therapy.
  2. Medical.
  3. Symptomatic.

The basis of recovery is proper nutrition. Children need to include in the diet lactic acid products containing bifido- and lactobacilli. These are natural probiotics and a good addition to medical treatment. This has a general strengthening effect on the child's body, increases resistance to infections.

diet therapy

The diet should contain nutrients and have a high energy value. It is necessary to include in the menu products that stimulate microflora: zucchini, cabbage, carrots, pumpkin, beets, nuts, rye products, buckwheat and corn.

It is recommended to cook kissels and compotes (from dried fruits and fruit and berries), preferably unsweetened. Meat and fish are lean, not too fatty. Water is only non-carbonated. Use porridge in a pureed form, oatmeal, rice, millet and barley porridge.

Yoghurts and bio-products with a long shelf life are practically useless: bacteria die on the first day after the production of these products. You can cook them yourself from the sourdough purchased at the pharmacy.

Milk should be excluded from the child's diet. Starchy vegetables are best avoided. No fast food or convenience foods.

Medical treatment

Medical treatment consists of two stages.

  • At the first stage, harmful flora is eliminated from the intestines. To do this, prescribe antibiotics or antibacterial drugs, bacteriophages and probiotics. Drugs are prescribed in such a way as to provide a greater effect on pathogenic microorganisms.
  • At the second stage, substitution therapy is carried out. Useful microflora is restored with the help of probiotics. How to treat dysbacteriosis in a child with drugs, only the attending physician decides.

Symptomatic therapy

For symptomatic therapy, drugs that improve digestion, vitamin complexes are prescribed. It is necessary to exclude overwork and stress. It is recommended to observe the daily routine and take regular walks. These activities help in the fight against the disease, strengthen the immune system.

It would be useful to use the methods of traditional medicine, but only after consulting with your doctor.

Dysbacteriosis in childhood is a common problem. Most often, this problem occurs due to the frequent use of antibacterial medicines and malnutrition.

What is dysbacteriosis? How to overcome dysbacteriosis in children?

Intestinal microflora, what is it?

There are four forms of microflora in the human body.

obligate type

It is customary to include lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, E. coli, enterococci, peptostreptococci. This type of bacteria makes up a healthy microflora of the digestive system.

Their effect is aimed at the normal functioning of the intestines, the protection of the mucous membrane and the prevention of the reproduction of harmful microorganisms.

The obligate type of flora is directly involved in the synthesis of B vitamins, folic acid and amino acids.

Such bacteria are able to remove substances that cause the growth of cancer cells and break down indigestible food.

Optional type

This group includes staphylococci, enterobacteria, klebsiella, clostridia and some yeast-type fungi. Such bacteria belong to conditionally pathogenic microflora. They are present in any intestine. And during normal functioning of the immune function, they do not lead to the occurrence of diseases.

Their effect is aimed at the breakdown of protein compounds of animal origin and the regulation of intestinal motility.

If their number in the digestive system increases, then a person has unpleasant symptoms in the form of flatulence, heartburn, belching, stool disorders, and rumbling in the stomach. This phenomenon is called dyspeptic.

Transient and pathogenic type

This type of bacteria is dangerous to humans. Under normal conditions, they are not present in the body.

Appear as a result of the occurrence of any infectious diseases. They can be identified only when passing fecal masses for analysis.

Features of dysbacteriosis in childhood

Dysbacteriosis in a child occurs due to the colonization of the digestive system with a large number of harmful bacteria.

This condition can be determined by the presence of symptoms and the delivery of feces for a special analysis.

With the help of such a study, many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract can be diagnosed. But not only this is important. Every parent should learn to listen to their baby, even if he is not yet a year old.

Symptoms of dysbacteriosis in children are:

  • frequent regurgitation in babies under one year old, lagging behind in weight, restless sleep, crying for no particular reason. In this case, the child has loose stools or diarrhea, which has an unpleasant odor;
  • pain in the abdomen, which has a paroxysmal character. Discomfort increases one to two hours after eating;
  • the development of flatulence, rumbling;
  • the occurrence of intestinal colic, belching, feeling of fullness in the abdomen;
  • the appearance of rashes on the skin, redness, itching.

Intestinal dysbacteriosis in children of a long-term nature can lead to the development of severe intoxication and dehydration of a small organism. Other signs are also observed in the form of an increase in temperature up to 38 degrees, weakness, sweating, loss of appetite.

Children's dysbacteriosis leads to the development of various ailments in the form of:

  • lack of enzymes and bile acids;
  • decreased immune function
  • increased susceptibility to various diseases;
  • development of hypovitaminosis;
  • anemia or anemia;
  • lack of calcium and vitamin D.

Any sign of dysbacteriosis in childhood may be accompanied by other diseases. Therefore, an examination by the attending physician is always required.

Many mothers are of the opinion that intestinal dysbacteriosis in children is only a temporary phenomenon and can go away on its own in a few days. But experts say that in the absence of proper treatment, such a process can lead to sad consequences.

The reasons

Before starting the treatment process, it is worth determining the cause of the development of the disease. To do this, you need to visit a doctor who will prescribe a microbiological study.

The causes of dysbacteriosis in children lie in:

  • early weaning;
  • abuse of refined food;
  • prolonged consumption of antibiotics by mother or baby;
  • artificial feeding;
  • regular stressful situations and emotional overload;
  • poor ecological situation in the city;
  • development of allergic reactions;
  • weakened immune function;
  • overeating.

In babies who were born prematurely or with low birth weight, the disease is much more common. But the problem of dysbacteriosis does not disappear even after the child gets older.

In adolescence, hormonal or psychological difficulties can be the cause of the imbalance, because they are going through puberty.

Also, experts say that signs of dysbacteriosis in children begin to appear even before birth.

It is not for nothing that the expectant mother is advised to treat bad teeth and inflammatory processes in time, as well as adhere to proper nutrition.

At the stage of gestation, you can not often use antibacterial drugs. And in the event of any disease, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Degrees of disease

Symptoms of the disease directly depend on what stage of the disease is observed in the baby. In practice, they are divided into four.

First stage

The number of beneficial microorganisms is gradually decreasing, and the growth of harmful microbes has not yet occurred. The first signs begin to appear in the form of regular colds and poor appetite.

Second stage

The number of harmful bacteria is growing. Then the child joins other signs in the form of increased gas formation and diarrhea with a pungent odor. The symptom that manifests itself causes slight discomfort in the baby.

Third stage

Dysbacteriosis becomes chronic. Intestinal colic and flatulence do not end, as a result of which the child regularly gets sick, becomes angry and whiny. Infants show signs of rickets.

Fourth stage

This form of the disease is the most dangerous. In the digestive system of the baby there are many harmful microbes that lead to the development of intestinal infections.

Undigested food begins to release toxic substances. Because of this, there are symptoms of intoxication of a chronic nature.

Diarrhea becomes persistent. There is an unpleasant putrid odor.

When parents know how dysbacteriosis manifests itself, it is urgent to begin the treatment process. Treatment regimens will depend on the form of manifestation.

Diagnosis

Before you start treating dysbacteriosis in children, you need to conduct an examination and determine the cause of the disease.

First, the doctor listens to complaints and palpates the patient's abdomen. Based on this, an examination is prescribed, which includes ultrasound diagnosis of the abdominal cavity and a coprogram.

Laboratory analysis allows you to assess the state of health of the patient. You can determine the degree of impairment and the rate of absorption of nutrients.

Ultrasound diagnosis allows you to examine all organs in the abdominal cavity, determine their size and appearance.

Medical Therapy for Children

Many parents are interested in the question of how to treat intestinal dysbacteriosis in childhood. To get the desired result, you must follow all the recommendations of the doctor.

Treatment of dysbacteriosis in a child primarily consists in the use of drug therapy, which includes the use of:

  1. Prebiotics. This is a type of substance that is of non-microbial origin. They are not digested in the intestines, but replenish the balance of the missing healthy bacteria. The effect of such medicines is aimed at suppressing the growth of harmful microbes. This group includes Dufalac, Hilak Forte. Also, prebiotics are found in food in the form of corn, onions and garlic, chicory and dairy products.
  2. Probiotics. Bacterial preparations. They contain live microorganisms that are able to regulate the intestinal microflora. These medicines are divided into several types: monocomponent, combined, synbiotics.
  3. bacteriophages. The composition of such funds includes specialized viruses that affect a specific type of bacteria. They can replace intestinal antibiotics and antiseptics. They are prescribed only in difficult situations, when the patient has symptoms in the form of dehydration and endless diarrhea.
  4. Antibacterial drugs. Their action is aimed at eliminating a specific bacterial infection.

The treatment regimen for dysbacteriosis in children most often consists of using:

  1. Acipola. The drug is allowed to be taken from birth, since its effect is aimed at restoring intestinal immunity. Babies up to a year should be given five doses per day. Children from one to six years old are prescribed ten doses, which are divided into three doses per day.
  2. Linex. The action of the drug is aimed at restoring the intestinal epithelium and proper absorption of electrolytes. The drug is prescribed for a course of five to seven days, three times a day.
  3. Bifiform baby. The composition of the drug includes bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, as well as vitamins of group B. For babies, the drug is prescribed in the form of a powder, and chewable tablets are allowed for children from three years of age.

If the baby was prescribed herbal preparations, then the mother needs to make sure that the child does not have an allergic reaction. To do this, you need to apply a drop of the product on the skin of the baby. If after twenty minutes no redness or rash appears, then the medication can be safely given.

If the baby has dry skin and a rash with dysbacteriosis, then an ointment or cream in the form of Emolium or Lipokrem may be prescribed. Not bad with various rashes, redness and itching, Lacri cream copes. It contains herbs, and therefore it is safe for babies up to a year.

If the disease was diagnosed in babies under one year old, then antibiotic treatment is strictly prohibited.

It is also worth noting that such funds with long-term use can only aggravate the situation, so a preliminary consultation with a doctor is required.

Nutrition for dysbacteriosis

Also, the treatment of intestinal dysbacteriosis in children includes a special diet.

  • rejection of fast foods, semi-finished products and snacks;
  • exclusion of carbonated drinks and sugary juices from the store;
  • refusal of sweet and starchy foods;
  • temporary exclusion from the diet of vegetable and fruit dishes;
  • the use of stewed or boiled vegetables, meat and fish;
  • taking oatmeal, rice and buckwheat porridge with milk or water;
  • eating bananas and baked apples.

It is possible to treat dysbacteriosis in children in the early stages with the help of fermented milk products, which include lacto- and bifidobacteria. These include Bifidok, fermented baked milk, low-fat kefir, Biolact, yoghurts without additives.

Compliance with the drinking regimen will help cure dysbacteriosis. Children under one year of age should be breastfed. If this is not possible for serious reasons, then the food should include not only the mixture, but also purified water in a volume of at least five hundred milliliters per day.

In babies from one to six years old, the volume of fluid should be at least one liter per day. At the same time, you can give weak tea, fruit drinks from berries, compotes from dried fruits, jelly, natural juices.

To strengthen the stool, children can be given rice water or a drink made from raisins.

Preventive actions

After the treatment process, prevention of dysbacteriosis in children should be observed.

It includes proper nutrition, which includes:

  • the use of a large number of vegetables and fruits in any form;
  • consumption of lean meat and fish. They must be stewed or boiled;
  • taking bread from wholemeal flour;
  • daily intake of dairy products.

Pasta, milk, pastries, sweets, canned food, ice cream should be excluded from the diet.

Do not forget about moderate physical activity. Every day in the morning after sleep, you need to do exercises. Once or twice a week, the baby should be taken to the pool, gymnastics, or take him to another sport.

Intestinal dysbacteriosis in children is a pathological process in which there is a violation of the composition of the intestinal microflora. The total number of opportunistic microorganisms increases and, at the same time, beneficial bacteria gradually die. Imbalance provokes the appearance of a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, a decrease in the reactivity of the body, the progression of anemia, as well as other serious pathological conditions. In the medical literature, this disease is also referred to as intestinal dysbiosis.

Quite often, signs of dysbiosis can be detected in a child of early childhood, often even in an infant. Prevention of illness in a child affects not only the impact on his health, but also on the health of the mother.

The reasons

Disorder of the intestinal microflora can occur for the following reasons:

  • late attachment of the baby to the breast. The fact is that colostrum contains protective elements necessary for the baby's intestines, including immunoglobulin, which is the cause of the growth in the number of beneficial bacteria;
  • abrupt or too early transition of an infant to artificial feeding. This causes beneficial gut bacteria to appear “belatedly”;
  • unbalanced and varied diet. Both fashionable diets and the use of refined foods with a minimum content of fiber, which “feed” beneficial intestinal bacteria, can contribute to problems with the intestines;
  • diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems;
  • diseases associated with impaired absorption of substances in the intestinal environment;
  • chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (,);
  • food allergy;
  • acute illnesses caused by infections;
  • radiation exposure;
  • transferred operations;
  • uncontrolled use of antibiotics.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of dysbiosis are:

  • instability of the stool - diarrhea alternates with constipation. At the same time, mucus may be present in the child's feces, and the feces themselves may be colored in an uncharacteristic color;
  • flatulence;
  • periodic cramps and pain in the abdomen;
  • loss of appetite;
  • bad breath.

It is worth knowing that the above signs of dysbacteriosis in children may also indicate other, more serious diseases associated with poor functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, therefore, before starting treatment, it is necessary to make an appointment with a doctor.

Degrees

Intestinal dysbiosis is conditionally divided into 4 degrees:

  • first degree characterized by a slight predominance of anaerobic flora over aerobic. At the same time, the baby feels good, there are no signs of the disease, and treatment is not carried out;
  • second degree The disease is characterized by inhibition of anaerobic type bacteria in the intestine to approximately the same number as aerobic ones. At this degree, the reproduction of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms and the appearance of an atypical form begin. Symptoms of this degree of the disease are diarrhea, pain in the abdomen. In infants, this stage of the disease can even cause growth retardation;
  • third degree characterized by an increase in the number of aerobic flora with an increase in the number of fungus of the genus Candida, and other bacteria. The process of inflammation of the intestine begins, which prevents the normal digestion of food. As a result, undigested food can be found in the stool. With this degree of illness, treatment is prescribed, which lasts up to several months;
  • fourth degree characterized by a clear predominance of pathogenic flora, which causes deterioration in children, weight loss, lack of vitamins and even intoxication. It is the last stage of dysbacteriosis, requiring a long-term restoration of microflora.

Diagnostics

Often, the symptoms of dysbacteriosis in children indicate that dysbiosis is just a secondary disease, and another gastrointestinal disease is the primary one. Correct diagnosis of symptoms by a doctor is possible only on the basis of data obtained as a result of research in the laboratory. Today for these purposes are used:

  • scatological analyses;
  • biochemical research;
  • bile tests;
  • determination of the composition of bacteria in the intestine using specific tests;
  • scraping, which is taken from the mucous membrane of the small intestine or duodenum;
  • scraping taken from the colon, as well as the rectum.

It is the last two studies that make it possible to obtain the most objective data, since they examine the parietal microflora, which is not contained in the analysis of feces. Complex examinations of the intestine, however, are performed only on the preliminary indication of a doctor.

Treatment

Ordinary feces taken from a child can only indirectly suggest what kind of microflora he has in the intestines. So if a nursing infant or an older child has tests with slight deviations from the norm, while they do not have problems with stool, do not worry about abdominal pain, and do not observe other symptoms of dysbiosis, you should not give him a medicine with bacteria. If dysbacteriosis in children up to a year or more manifested itself, then it is required to clarify its true causes. When the root cause is found, the correction of the composition of the intestinal microflora begins. Treatment of the disease is carried out by a gastroenterologist, pediatrician, infectious disease specialist or an allergist, depending on the underlying cause of the disease.

In addition, when the doctor begins to treat the underlying disease, the secondary disease - dysbiosis - can also be eliminated automatically. For example, if you treat enzymatic disorders in the intestines of an infant, then his microflora will be restored.

To successfully treat dysbiosis in infants and adolescents, it is first necessary to follow a diet. For different age categories of patients, it is different, for example, it will be enough for an infant to return to feeding with mother's milk or introduce complementary foods gradually. Older children should reconsider the diet by adding dairy products to the diet. You can treat and restore the intestinal microflora with the following medicines:

  • "Bifidumbacterin" - available in liquid and dry form;
  • "Lactobacterin";
  • Linex.

To stimulate the reproduction of beneficial microorganisms in the intestinal flora, it is recommended to drink Hilak-Forte or Lysozyme. Also, in order to treat dysbiosis, the doctor will most likely prescribe you bacteriophages, as well as antibiotics that will destroy harmful bacteria. After correction, probiotics will be used to restore the microflora.

As far as diet formulas are concerned for infants, the following medications will be beneficial for them:

  • "Lactofidus";
  • a mixture of "NAN with bifidobacteria";
  • "Narine".

Many believe that the treatment of dysbacteriosis in children in all cases is accompanied by taking medications. In fact, drugs to cure dysbiosis will be prescribed by a doctor if:

  • long-term treatment with antibiotics was used, which destroy both harmful and beneficial bacteria;
  • intestinal diseases were transferred;
  • the baby was given an unadapted mixture too early.

In other cases, if the child did not have the above situations, the microflora will be corrected with the help of the best prevention - diet. It is worth knowing that changing the diet of children under one year old must be agreed with the attending physician, and for schoolchildren and preschoolers, such dietary advice will be relevant:

  • inclusion in the diet of a variety of fruits and vegetables;
  • increase in the share of dairy and sour-milk products;
  • exclusion from the diet or reduction to a minimum of products with preservatives;
  • a break in food for a child should be 3.5-5 hours.

Prevention of the disease in infants, first of all, depends on the state of health of the mother. As a preventive measure, even during pregnancy, she should take care of the health of her genitals, lead a healthy lifestyle and try not to take antibiotics.

Is everything correct in the article from a medical point of view?

Answer only if you have proven medical knowledge

Diseases with similar symptoms:

Intestinal obstruction is a severe pathological process, which is characterized by a violation of the process of release of substances from the intestine. This disease most often affects people who are vegetarians. There are dynamic and mechanical intestinal obstruction. If the first symptoms of the disease are detected, it is necessary to go to the surgeon. Only he can accurately prescribe treatment. Without timely medical attention, the patient may die.

The state of the intestinal microflora of an infant directly depends on the nature of its feeding. During breastfeeding, the microflora contains predominantly bifidobacteria of some species (Bifidobacterium: Bifidum, Infantis, Breve), with artificial feeding - another type of bifidobacteria (Bifidobacterium longum), the number of lactobacilli increases, and the number of bacteroids and veionella increases, which increase gas formation and can be cause of unstable stool.

Starting from the age of 3, changes in the microbial composition of the intestine occur (instead of Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium ado-lescentis appears). Therefore, in the treatment of dysbacteriosis, the selection of drugs is carried out taking into account the nature of feeding and the age of the child.

Symptoms

To make it easier to navigate the many clinical manifestations of dysbacteriosis, they were combined into 3 groups in accordance with the degrees and corresponding changes in the normal intestinal microflora.

I degree of dysbacteriosis

This stage is characterized by a decrease in the number of bifidobacteria or lactobacilli or both at the same time by 1-2 orders of magnitude. The number of Escherichia coli also changes - it decreases (up to 80%) or, conversely, increases with the appearance of their altered forms (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, E. Coli).

Children develop symptoms of bowel dysfunction:

  • decreased appetite;
  • unstable body weight curve;
  • flatulence;
  • constipation;
  • uneven coloring of feces.

II degree of dysbacteriosis

This stage is characterized by the appearance of one type of opportunistic microorganisms or entire associations of opportunistic bacteria in small concentrations.

Children can show symptoms of a wide variety of diseases.

Symptoms of gastritis:

  • pain in the abdomen associated with eating;
  • dyspeptic disorders: belching, nausea, heartburn, vomiting;
  • slip symptom;
  • regurgitation;
  • loss of appetite;
  • refusal of food;
  • feeling full after eating;
  • pain in the epigastrium (upper abdomen);
  • flatulence;
  • constipation.

Enteritis symptoms:

  • diarrhea;
  • bloating;
  • flatulence;
  • stomach ache;
  • increased fatigue;
  • irritability;
  • headache;
  • weakness, lethargy;
  • polyhypovitaminosis;
  • anemia;
  • violation of mineral metabolism;
  • violation of intestinal absorption;
  • chronic eating disorder;
  • exudative enteropathy (loss of protein in the digestive tract).

Symptoms of enterocolitis:

  • spastic pains in the abdomen;
  • flatulence;
  • slip symptom;
  • refusal to eat;
  • stool disorders: diarrhea with lesions of the small intestine, constipation with lesions of the large intestine, feces in the form of sheep or ribbon-like feces;
  • increased discharge of gases;
  • diarrhea;
  • growth retardation, weight gain;
  • disorder of trophic processes (violation of metabolic processes, decrease in tissue elasticity, etc.);
  • polyhypovitaminosis (vitamin deficiency);
  • anemia;
  • osteoporosis;
  • violation of the absorption function of the intestine;
  • metabolic disease.

Colitis symptoms:

  • stool disorders: constipation, diarrhea, unstable stool;
  • pain syndrome;
  • flatulence;
  • syndrome of incomplete emptying of the intestine;
  • syndrome of increased gas formation;
  • coated tongue.

For all forms of manifestations of dysbacteriosis are characteristic:

  • sporadic (spontaneously occurring) allergic reactions with changes in the skin;
  • anemia;
  • hypovitaminosis;
  • hypocalcemia.

III degree of dysbacteriosis

Severe disturbances of microflora: high concentration of opportunistic microorganisms, both of the same species and in associations.

During this period, children develop symptoms of transient bacteremia:

  • short-term increase in body temperature;
  • chills;
  • headache;
  • weakness;
  • cramping pains in the abdomen, mainly in the afternoon;
  • syndrome of gastrointestinal dyspepsia;
  • bacteriuria (the presence of bacteria in the urine);
  • bacteriocholia (presence of bacteria in bile);
  • foci of endogenous (internal) infection.

Treatment

Very often, parents ask the question: is it necessary to treat dysbacteriosis if nothing bothers the child? Indeed, if the child has no signs of gastrointestinal dysfunction (constipation, diarrhea, indigestion of food components, pain, regurgitation or vomiting), if he has no allergic manifestations, good appetite, he is cheerful and cheerful, then, of course, treatment can and not required. After all, a violation of the intestinal microflora can be temporary. Teething, the introduction of new foods, a single respiratory illness can lead to a short-term decrease in the amount of normal microflora. But it’s a completely different matter if the child is often sick, capricious, his appetite is reduced, and his muscle tone is rather weak; in this case (even if he has neither constipation nor diarrhea), prevention or correction of dysbacteriosis is necessary. Why? Because if therapeutic measures are not started on time, then in a few years the child may develop chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, immunity will be weakened.

In the last decade, pediatricians have noted an increase in the number of children, especially the first year of life, with dysbacteriosis. In addition, some children have a delay in the development of the intestinal autonomic nervous system, a later onset of enzyme systems, and an imperfection of the immune system of the gastrointestinal mucosa. The treatment of such children presents a considerable problem and, of course, differs from the treatment of adults.

The state of health of the child, especially the infant, depends very much on the state of health of the mother. But, alas, in recent years, hormonal disorders in the mother's body have become more and more common, which affect the baby's condition, causing him to have disorders in the function of the gastrointestinal tract. These disorders are manifested in the form of regurgitation, intestinal colic, constipation or, conversely, diarrhea.

The composition of the intestinal microflora of the child depends on passive immunity - those living leukocytes, immunoglobulins and other substances that are transmitted to the baby from the mother through the blood in the last months of pregnancy, and after birth - through breast milk, which enhances his immunity. Of great importance is the activity of the child's nonspecific defense mechanisms, the level of which depends on genetic factors. Even more important is the state of the microflora of the mother, because it is with her that the child meets in the first minutes of his life. And if a mother has intestinal dysbacteriosis, then the child will certainly inherit it.

Therefore, the first thing parents should do to improve the child's condition is to take care of the mother's health. To do this, she must eat fully, take vitamins, sleep enough. Soothing teas and calm, relaxing music are recommended to improve her emotional state. In addition, the mother needs to follow a diet (of course, if she is breastfeeding): it is necessary to limit the use of cabbage, tomatoes, peas, mushrooms, grapes, any smoked and spicy foods. When the child is very anxious, the amount of milk in the mother's diet is temporarily reduced (note: reduced, not completely eliminated!). If the child has a rapid stool, then she should exclude cucumbers, plums, beets, pumpkin from her diet. If the baby is constipated, then she needs to limit her consumption of rice and baked goods.

If a child has flatulence, he may be prescribed Espumizan, Sub-simplex or Disflatil - drugs that reduce gas formation. It is also good to apply the baby to yourself: dry heat relaxes the spasmodic intestines, and the child calms down.

Ideally, if the expectant mother, even before the birth of the child, makes every effort to normalize her microflora. During pregnancy, you can take drugs such as Normoflorins Li B, Narine-forte, Bifiform, Santa-Rus-B, Hilak-forte, Probalance, especially if they are combined with the use of soft sorbents - Fervital Extra, Zosterin-Ultra 30% . It is desirable to continue taking sorbents in the first months after the birth of a child.

Formula-fed children are recommended thick mixtures to prevent vomiting and regurgitation. These include Frisovoy, Nutrilon-antireflux and Omneo. They can either feed the baby or add them at the end of each feeding. If a child is prone to constipation, Omneo, Frisovoy or Samper bifidus are better suited, and with frequent stools, Nutrilon-antireflux or low-lactose mixtures are better suited. You can feed your baby with soy protein formulas, but not all the time. Mixtures containing live bifidus and lactobacilli, such as Lactofidus and NAN fermented milk, have also proven themselves well.

However, even such mixtures do not cancel the use of live concentrated preparations containing bifidus and lactobacilli. Taking these drugs is very effective, provided that they are taken for a long time (at least a month) and alternated with prebiotics, such as Hilak-forte, or lactulose preparations (Lactusan or Dufalac syrups). In some cases, it is necessary to prescribe enzymes (Creon, Mezim-forte), but their dosage should be selected individually.

It is useful for almost every child to take enterosorbents, primarily Zosterin-Ultra 30%, which is suitable even for newborns. In acute conditions, Smecta is used. This enterosorbent improves the properties of the mucus of the gastrointestinal tract and protects enterocytes (cells lining the walls of the intestine), but you can take it for no more than 5 days, otherwise metabolic disorders may occur. For children aged 3 years and older, Fervital is recommended, which not only cleanses the intestines, but also stimulates the growth of its own microflora.

In some cases, especially with excessive growth of pathogenic staphylococcus, a staphylococcal bacteriophage is used, which is a virus that is harmless to humans and affects only staphylococci. Less often (after laboratory tests), other bacteriophages can be prescribed - Klebsieleus, coliproteus, etc.

Children under 3 months of age are prescribed mainly preparations containing bifido- and lactobacilli. Older children can be prescribed complex drugs, such as Linex, Nutridophilus, Floraldophilus (Floradofilus), etc. In the treatment of children older than 1 year, long-term (up to 3 months) Santa Rus-B is effective. At the final stage of microflora restoration, Laminolact can also be used.

If the child has any pathology on the part of the central nervous system, the treatment prescribed by the neuropathologist is also mandatory, since otherwise the beneficial microflora will constantly “slip”, “leave” from the intestine, the wall of which “cooperates” little with it.

A particular problem is the treatment of children with cerebral palsy (infantile cerebral palsy). In this case, in order to achieve a good effect from the treatment of the underlying disease, it is necessary to stop the manifestations of dysbacteriosis for at least 3 months in spring and autumn. Only in this case will the effect of the main therapy.

Children after 1 year are recommended to use products that stimulate the development of normal microflora: fermented milk, including Aktimel, Imunele, Bifilakt; products from corn, buckwheat, non-canned juices, cabbage, carrots, zucchini.

If hemolyzing Escherichia coli and staphylococci are found in the microflora, then it is useful to take fermented milk products containing bifidus and lactobacilli. If the presence of fungi of the genus Candida and Proteus is observed, then you need to take fermented milk products that do not contain probiotics, such as kefir, fermented baked milk, evita, since they inhibit the growth of this particular pathogenic flora.

Children aged 1 year and older can be offered ready-made fermented milk products: Bifidok, Bifilife and others, which, as a rule, contain acidophilus bacillus and bifidobacteria. But there are not very many bifidobacteria in them, so they cannot replace the drugs Bifidumbacterin and Lactobacterin, but they always successfully complement them. A large amount of useful microflora is contained in fermented milk Bifilakt.

If the condition of the child's gastrointestinal tract causes anxiety in the attending physician, he can prescribe Bactisubtil, which consists of spores of bacteria that are uncharacteristic of the human intestine, but help digest food and displace microflora not associated with the intestinal mucosa. But in this case, constant monitoring by a specialist is necessary, since with prolonged uncontrolled use of this drug, bacterial spores can spread outside the intestines, which is fraught with serious complications.

Of all the variety of probiotics, it is worth highlighting the liquid biocomplexes Normoflorins L, B and D. They contain bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in a biologically active state, as well as, no less important, their metabolic products: vitamins, trace elements, amino acids, natural antibiotic complexes, enzymes and peptides that improve the formation of local immunity. Normoflorins contain the prebiotic lactitol, which stimulates the growth and reproduction of beneficial microflora in the intestines.

Normoflorins fully meet all safety requirements, since they do not contain cow's milk protein and lactose, which allows them to be prescribed to children with allergies and lactase deficiency from birth.

Normoflorins are presented in three types: L - based on lactobacilli, B - bifidobacteria and D - a combination of lacto- + bifidoflora (but their strains are different, this is not a direct replacement for L + B, but a different drug). They are prescribed both in combination (morning and lunch - L evening - B or D), and separately (for constipation, the first 2 weeks - L, then 2 weeks - B or D). In addition, Normoflorin L can be used in the form of skin applications, for gargling, instillation into the nose, and B - in the form of microclysters, which is especially important for young patients.

In addition to the means listed above, vitamins, microelements and adaptogens are used to normalize the microflora.

Among vitamin preparations, I can recommend Biovital, Multitabs, Sanasol, as well as children's Vitrum, Centrum, Jungle, Pikovit, etc. Very effective, but, unfortunately, due to high prices, complex multivitamin preparations from Newweiss are not available to everyone, Sunrider, Vision, Inrich, Artlife. They contain, as a rule, chelate complexes, that is, vitamins associated with proteins and therefore easily penetrate directly into the cells.

In order to strengthen the immune system and create favorable conditions for the “engraftment” of beneficial microflora, such well-known adaptogens as ginseng, Chinese magnolia vine, aralia, Rhodiola rosea, as well as extracts from them, such as Neovitin, are used. In case of metabolic disorders and loss of appetite, preparations containing trace elements, such as Beresh plus drops, may be prescribed.

At the end of the section, I would like to tell readers about the prospects, in principle, very narrow-minded.

Methods have already been developed for the introduction of donor (maternal) bifidus and lactobacilli to a child 2 hours after birth (to prevent the colonization of pathogenic microflora in his intestines). Very promising as a preventive measure and for treatment is the so-called functional nutrition, when biological preparations created on the basis of a person's own microflora, including a child, are added to ready-made food products.

Once again, I would like to remind you that since dysbacteriosis has many causes, the selection of means for its correction is carried out strictly individually, taking into account many factors. So, there will be no effect from treatment based only on the results of a fecal analysis for dysbacteriosis. It is necessary to take into account the reasons that led to the disruption of the microflora, clinical manifestations, the duration of the process, the presence of other diseases. Nevertheless, I can give some general recommendations.

Firstly, it is obligatory to take enterosorbents, which not only remove toxins and allergens, but also enhance the protective properties of the intestinal mucosa (especially Zosterin-Ultra 30%).

Secondly, it is necessary to eliminate the causes that led to dysbacteriosis.

Thirdly, any therapeutic measures should be carried out for a long time, with repeated maintenance courses. Otherwise, the condition of the intestine will worsen again.

Fourth, do not forget to tell the doctor about your (!) problems with the gastrointestinal tract (many diseases are inherited).

Fifth, probiotics must be selected individually and periodically (every 2-4 weeks) to replace them with others.

And finally, the last one. It is impossible to make a mistake in interpreting the changes taking place in the state of the child. If the baby got better, and then symptoms reappeared, indicating a problem with the gastrointestinal tract, you should think about whether we are taking for dysbacteriosis, for example, acute infectious enterocolitis. Treatment in this case is different.

There is a good way to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment of dysbiosis disorders in the intestines of a small child. This is not only sowing feces for dysbacteriosis (alas, this is a very long process), but also the dynamics of weight gain in a child, as well as his psychomotor development. If the child develops according to age, is active and cheerful, then you are on the right track!

Stages of treatment

As we have already said, dysbacteriosis can be caused by a variety of reasons - from malnutrition to anomalies in the development of the child. Therefore, the treatment of this disease should be individual and complex.

Precisely complex! Many years of practice shows that it is impossible to cure dysbacteriosis (regardless of its cause) with one, even the most modern and high-quality, drug. Yes, using one drug for a long period, you can notice an improvement in the health of the child. Moreover, this improvement will be confirmed by analyzes. But practice shows that after a few months the child starts to get sick again, becomes lethargic, eats poorly, he has an upset stool. So everything is back to normal...

Treatment of dysbacteriosis in children is a complex of measures: taking medications, proper nutrition, observing the daily regimen and nutrition, preventing dysbacteriosis in others (parents, nannies). In addition, treatment should be phased. I distinguish two stages of the actual treatment and the third - the final one, which consolidates the effect obtained after the first two.

Suppression of pathogenic microorganisms

The first stage is to suppress pathogenic microbes and normalize the microflora. Suppose a child has signs of dyspepsia: diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, complaints of pain in the intestinal area. What needs to be done first? Remove all these manifestations. So, the first step at this stage is to stop vomiting and normalize the stool.

In this case, the baby receives only the main food: breast milk or formula. Older children should follow a diet (up to 3 years, the nutrition of even a healthy child should be dietary). But at any age, the consumption of vegetables and fruits is sharply limited. Fruit juices are completely excluded. If the child does not eat well, then the lack of food is compensated for with water, sweet tea or special solutions that the doctor will recommend. These can be glucose-salt solutions - Regidron, Citroglucosolan. In addition, it is good to give small doses (from 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons, depending on the situation) 5-6 times a day, decoctions of herbs that have an antiseptic effect - chamomile, St. John's wort, sage - or plants that help fix the stool: this can be a decoction of cinquefoil root or dried blueberries.

If all these measures have brought the desired result, the diet can be made more free. Babies are introduced to complementary foods in the form of mashed vegetables, fruits, cereals. But in any case, fermented milk mixtures, as well as products enriched with bifidobacteria and lysozyme, must be present in the diet. The choice of fermented milk mixtures is now quite large, and parents, together with a pediatrician, can choose the most suitable for a sick baby.

In severe cases, when with the help of these measures it is not possible to remove digestive disorders (the stool does not return to normal, belching, bloating, nausea, etc. continue to disturb), the child needs a strict diet. In addition, therapeutic foods containing prebiotics and insoluble dietary fiber should be included in the child's diet. They will work to restore intestinal motility and contribute to the normalization of microflora. The following are the most effective.

  • Sour-milk Lactobacterin. Prepared on the basis of cow's milk with the addition of dry lactobacterin or sourdough from L. Plantarum. The drug is prescribed 1-2 times a day. Daily doses: children under 6 months - 20-50 ml, children from 6 months to 1 year - 40-100 ml, children from 3 years and older - 100-200 ml. The course is 30-40 days.
  • Sour-milk Bifilakt. It is prepared on a milk basis with the addition of dry microbial preparations (lactobacterin and bifidobacterin). It is prescribed up to 200 ml per day in 1-2 doses. The duration of the course is from 2 weeks to 1 month.
  • Antacid Bifilakt. It is prepared by fermenting milk with B. Bifidum and L. Plantarum strains with the addition of lactose, corn starch and egg lysozyme.
  • It is prescribed 3 times a day. Single doses: children under 1 year old - 10-30 ml, children from 1 year to 6 years old - 40 ml, children from 7 to 10 years old - 50 ml, children from 11 to 14 years old - 100 ml. The course is 30-40 days.

The next step is the suppression of inflammatory dyspeptic disorders in the gastrointestinal tract, the suppression of pathogenic microflora. For this purpose, bacteriophages are used. They actively fight harmful (pathogenic) microbes and at the same time do not harm useful ones. They are non-toxic, do not cause adverse reactions and complications. Staphylococcal bacteriophage (as its name implies) has the ability to suppress strains of staphylococci, Klebsiella - Klebsiella, Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteriophage is used to treat dysbacteriosis caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, coliproteus is active against enteropathogenic Escherichia coli and Proteus, pyobacteriophage can be used in the fight against staphylococci, Escherichia , Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

It is very important to choose from all the available drugs exactly the one that is needed, which will suppress the specific pathogenic flora that caused the disease. Bacteriophages are used in combination with other forms of drug treatment. In each specific case - their own. For example, staphylococcal (isolated) dysbacteriosis can be treated by administering staphylococcal bacteriophage in combination (or sequentially) with a 1% alcohol solution of Chlorophyllipt.

With the development of dysbacteriosis in children fed with breast milk, along with the treatment of the child, it is necessary to prescribe immunopreparations for the nursing mother. The child must be temporarily (for 5-7 days) transferred to feeding with sterilized breast milk. Throughout this period, forced treatment of dysbacteriosis is carried out both in the child and in the mother.

To maintain and “feed” not quite healthy beneficial bacteria, you need to give the child vitamins C, B 1, B 2, B 6, as well as cranberry juice and fruit drink, apple juice, dried apple compote, a decoction of rose hips.

Restoration of beneficial microflora

At the second stage, it is necessary to restore the beneficial microflora, its quantity and functions, as well as eliminate the consequences of dysbacteriosis, such as allergies, anemia, hypovitaminosis. In addition, it is necessary to strengthen the viability of the child's body, since the child at this time loses a lot of strength, "grabs" a variety of diseases against the background of dysbacteriosis, becomes lethargic and unable to resist.

The first thing to start the second stage with is the introduction of beneficial bacteria into the body, primarily bifidobacteria. Why? Because these are the most significant representatives of the intestinal flora. They are protectors, breadwinners, and immunostimulants. In addition, other very important microorganisms, lactobacilli, cannot fully function without them. There are several preparations containing bifidobacteria: Bifidumbacterin in dry and liquid form, Bifilong, etc. It is important that the doctor selects a drug that is suitable for a particular child and his disease.

Following bifidobacteria, lactobacilli are introduced: Lactobacterin, Nutrolin "B", Linex, Floraldofilus (Floradofilus), Santa Rus-B (prescribed for children over 1 year old), etc. A good effect is achieved when taking Normoflorin L, it can be given to a child from the first months life. Then, if necessary, preparations containing a full-fledged E. coli (Bifikol, Kolibakterin) are prescribed. As a rule, they are taken orally in 2 divided doses 30 minutes before meals. In some cases, they are recommended to be administered rectally - microclysters.

To improve the vital activity of beneficial microflora, Hilak-forte is prescribed, 1 milliliter of which contains the metabolic products of 100 billion microorganisms, including lactic acid, fatty acids, lactose and amino acids. Taking Hilak-forte improves intestinal motility, with its help, the cells of its epithelium and their functional activity are restored.

To improve the functional properties of the microflora, along with probiotics, vitamins C, B 1, B 2, calcium Pantothenate, a complex of fat-soluble vitamins A and E in an age-specific therapeutic dose, vitamin P - in a prophylactic dose are prescribed. Children from 3 years old - a combination of vitamins C and group B with trace elements, in particular selenium, which has a particularly beneficial effect on the intestinal microbiocenosis. The course of treatment is 3-4 weeks.

In addition, it is necessary to increase the immunity of the child. In some cases, it is necessary to take pharmaceutical preparations (interferon preparations and, first of all, Kipferon), but only as directed by a doctor! The fact is that in children of the first year of life, the action of inhibitory factors predominates in the immune system. If we begin to "stimulate" the immunity of a small child, then it is these inhibitory factors that will react first of all, and instead of increasing immunity, we will get its real decrease. The doctor can prescribe Kipferon, and Derinat, and Polyoxidonium, but it is the doctor who cannot do this on his own. You can self-correct with milder forms of treatment, such as taking micronutrient supplements, in particular zinc, and foods rich in vitamins, especially group B.

Consolidation of the therapeutic effect

At the third stage, the underlying disease, against which the dysbacteriosis developed, is cured, and the effect obtained during the entire previous treatment is fixed.

As for the underlying disease, then, of course, the methods of treatment depend on what the child is sick with. If a child has disorders in the work of the gastrointestinal tract, then special therapy is carried out in conjunction with a gastroenterologist; if the main reason is immune defense factors, then it is necessary to connect an immunologist and strictly follow all his recommendations.

And yet we must not forget that the third stage is the period when a sick child must become healthy! Therefore, the main attention should be paid to the correct daily routine. The child needs to walk a lot, sleep a lot, eat well. Parents should create a favorable psychological atmosphere in the house: it is necessary to protect the baby from any conflicts and stresses.

It is very important at this stage to monitor compliance with the diet and diet. Of course, the diet must be agreed with the attending physician, but nevertheless it is necessary to diversify it as much as possible. In the diet of the child should be enough foods containing vitamins and minerals. Fruits, vegetables, berries, juices should always be on the table.

If possible, at least for the period of treatment, buy organic products. The same goes for water. I want to remind readers, especially residents of industrial cities, that tap water should not be drunk, and even more so, you should not give it to a sick child! Water must either be bought or filtered. Of the variety of modern water filters on the market, it is advised to choose products from the Japanese company Nikken. In addition to the standard purification offered by all manufacturers of modern filters, with the help of Nikken filters, water, firstly, is mineralized (i.e. enriched with the minerals necessary for the body), and secondly, it is magnetized and structured, acquiring properties that were originally laid down by nature. This water is called "living".

And the last. Even if the child looks absolutely healthy, it is necessary to monitor the state of his microflora for a long time: you should periodically show the child to the doctor, take tests. Do not forget about prevention: use bioadditives, such as Fervital, infusions of medicinal herbs. In the chapter on the treatment of dysbacteriosis in adults, the necessary herbal remedies are indicated, many of them are also suitable for children. But still, I advise you to familiarize yourself with Appendix 4, which lists the medicinal herbs used in the treatment and prevention of dysbacteriosis in children.

For allergies

Dysbacteriosis, as already mentioned, occurs in many diseases that, it would seem, are not directly related to the intestines. Atopic dermatitis, bronchial asthma, urticaria, other allergic diseases are among them. Why is this happening?

The fact is that the natural healthy intestinal microflora inhibits the processes as a result of which histamine is synthesized from food histidine, which actually causes allergic reactions. Thus, the allergic potential of the food eaten is reduced and, naturally, the manifestations of allergies are reduced. With severe dysbacteriosis, on the contrary, the penetration of allergens into the blood is accelerated, which causes an increase in allergic reactions. In addition, in healthy children, the microflora produces liposaccharides responsible for the formation of food tolerance. In children with allergies, the production of these liposaccharides in most cases is severely impaired. Therefore, the treatment and prevention of intestinal dysbacteriosis in children with any form of allergic processes helps to minimize the manifestations of allergies. For example, according to Finnish scientists, taking probiotics by a woman during pregnancy and lactation helps to reduce the risk of atopic (allergic) dermatitis in a child during the first 2 years of life.

The treatment of microflora disorders in allergies has its own specifics, primarily because over the past few years, a large number of young children have been observed intolerance to cow's milk proteins. But most probiotics contain these proteins. Therefore, for the treatment of dysbacteriosis in children with allergies to them, Normoflorins L, B and D are used, which are prepared on the basis of skimmed milk hydrolyzate and do not contain them (in Finland, the dairy-free drug Lactofilus is used with the same effect). The intake of Normoflorins can be alternated with other drugs, such as Bifiform (preferably in capsules, since Bifiform "baby" in powders and tablets contains vitamins and therefore causes allergic reactions in most cases), Floraldophilus (Flora-dophilus), Vaitodophilus (Sunrider Company ").

It is advisable to alternate the intake of probiotics (that is, preparations containing living microflora) with the intake of prebiotics (drugs that stimulate the development of normal microflora). Hilak-forte is most often used as a prebiotic.

Enterosorbents are almost always prescribed, primarily Zosterin-Ultra 30% (in some cases, when an immunostimulating effect is necessary, Zosterin-Ultra 60%), Enteros-gel, Laktofiltrum, Fervital or Fervital-Extra.

It is necessary to completely exclude the use of products that cause allergic reactions, and if allergic manifestations increase, take antihistamines: these can be Tavegil, Fenistil, Zyrtec, Claritin, Erius, etc. In the presence of skin manifestations of allergies, Licorice cream, Bepanten, Advantan, Elidel can be recommended .