Diarrhea is a common health issue that affects babies worldwide. This condition is characterized by frequent, watery bowel movements that may lead to dehydration and other complications if left untreated.
Additionally, being equipped with the right knowledge about this health concern is essential for parents. Keep on reading ‘cause we’ll explore some common signs and symptoms of diarrhea in babies and provide some helpful tips for treating it.
Diarrhea in babies
Frequent, loose, and watery stools are some of the indications of diarrhea. This common issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial or viral infections, dietary changes, food sensitivities, and even stress.
While this health concern is often a short-term problem for infants, it can lead to more serious complications if left untreated. It's important to seek medical attention if you notice any signs or symptoms. And because of that, it is essential to know what are the other signs of symptoms of diarrhea.
Signs and symptoms
Here are some common signs and symptoms of diarrhea in babies:
- Watery or loose stools
- Increased frequency of bowel movements, which can be more than usual or more frequent than every 2-3 hours
- Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
- Fever
- Loss of appetite or refusing to feed
- Irritability or fussiness
- Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dry skin, and decreased urine output
Care tips for babies with diarrhea
Here are some steps you can follow if your little one is suffering from diarrhea:
- Breastfeeding or formula feeding should continue. But you may need to feed your baby more frequently and in smaller amounts.
- Avoid giving your baby any solid foods until their diarrhea has cleared up.
- Rehydrate your baby. Dehydration is the major concern with diarrhea, so the primary treatment is to replace lost fluids. You can give your baby oral rehydration solutions, or increase his/her fluid intake.
- Give your baby oral medications prescribed by their Pedia. In some cases, a doctor might prescribe an antibiotic for a bacterial infection or an antiparasitic medication for parasite infections.
- Change your little one’s diet. Depending on the age of your baby and the severity of the diarrhea, a doctor may recommend a temporary change in his/her diet. This may involve giving a special formula or avoiding certain foods until the diarrhea resolves.
Truly, diarrhea in babies is very easy to treat. Always be aware if its signs and symptoms are manifesting to your little one. Just follow the simple care tips that we’ve shared and you can help your baby feel better and recover from diarrhea quickly.
However, if the condition persists or worsens, seek medical attention immediately. Remember that the health and well-being of your baby is paramount, and with the right care, they will soon be back to their happy and healthy selves.