Toddler with distended stomach

[nymum]

My 2 1/2 year old has recently had the stomach flu- vomiting for one week and diarrhea persisting beyond that. His bowel movements are still unpredictable- some solid, some not. He is eating and drinking well now, but I've noticed his tummy is really distended- swollen and firm. He doesn't complain of pain, even when I push it, but it is noticeably distended. Is this a normal after effect of the stomach flu or should I be worried? Thanks for any info/experiences!

As long as he has stopped vomiting and no pain in abdomen it seems a reasonable asumption that his gut is full of gas from all the overactivity and inflammation it has gone through. Try him with very bland diet, no fruit or fruit juice and those yakult and other types of drinks, with maybe activia yoghurt to re establish normal bowel bacteria. If it doesnt settle in a few days and the diarrhoea continues get him checked over. Not many causes for kids to have distended abdomens and cant see any indication from your description. Good luck.

did he have any vaccinations in recent weeks/months?

Thanks. No vaccinations,so maybe I'll just give it a bit of time to see if things return to normal. No pain, so I'll see if yogurt helps.

Bugs can be triggers for intolerances such as lactose and coeliac so if it is persistent I would get him assessed.