Baby diarrhea is a common condition, second only to respiratory infections. It is also common for babies to have watery stools, so parents should not be overly worried. As long as the correct methods are taken, infant diarrhea can be relieved quickly. Today, let's understand the reasons for babies having watery stools, the main symptoms of infant diarrhea, and what to do when a baby has diarrhea.
Reasons for Babies Having Watery Stools
1. There are many reasons for a child to have diarrhea. Sometimes it is caused by gastroenteritis. Gastroenteritis is an intestinal disease caused by inflammation. At this time, children are prone to diarrhea, and they may even have low-grade fever and vomiting. It is important to actively treat it.
2. Some children grow faster than others, and their bodies require higher levels of nutrients. However, their digestive organs develop relatively late, making it difficult for them to fully digest their food. As a result, they are more prone to diarrhea. At this time, it is advisable to feed the child easily digestible food.
3. Some children have poor intestinal function. Any slight dietary changes or discomfort can lead to diarrhea. If a child's stomach gets cold or if they eat cold food, they may also experience diarrhea. Pay attention to these factors.
4. Infants have immature digestive functions. If they consume excessive amounts of sugary drinks or juices, they may develop diarrhea. Their stools may become very watery, similar to water. It is important to pay attention to the baby's diet in daily life.
Main Symptoms of Infant Diarrhea:
1. Mild diarrhea: 5-6 bowel movements per day, sometimes up to 10 times, with stools resembling egg flowers or water, yellow or yellow-green, with small white pieces. The child may have low-grade fever, regurgitation, and slightly reduced mental state and appetite. The weight may not increase or slightly decrease, and there is no dehydration.
2. Moderate diarrhea: 10 bowel movements per day, watery stools with a sour and foul odor, and possibly a moderate fever.
3. Severe diarrhea: More than 10 bowel movements per day, watery stools, yellow, vomiting, fever, reduced urine output, poor appetite, weight loss, rapid onset of dehydration and acidosis, and low potassium, calcium, and magnesium levels.
4. Some babies may experience obvious dehydration, acidosis, and electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium or magnesium levels.
What to Do When a Baby Has Diarrhea
1. The most important thing when a child has diarrhea is to replenish fluids in a timely manner to prevent dehydration. Fluids can be replenished with homemade sugar-salt solution, which is prepared by adding 1.75 grams of refined table salt and 10 grams of sugar to 5000 milliliters of warm boiled water. 1.75 grams of refined table salt is equivalent to half a bottle cap, and 10 grams of sugar is equivalent to 2 small spoons. Alternatively, rice soup with added salt solution can be used, which is prepared by adding 1.75 grams of refined table salt to 500 milliliters of warm boiled water. ORS (oral rehydration salts) prescribed by a doctor can also be used. ORS is a pre-made powder that can be mixed with water according to the instructions.
2. When a child has diarrhea, pay attention to their hygiene, diet hygiene, and personal hygiene.
3. Pay attention to the quality of the diet and avoid eating foods that irritate the gastrointestinal tract. Infant formula should be diluted before feeding to babies under three months old.
3. Prevent the child's abdomen from getting cold, as the abdomen lacks a layer of fat for insulation. Therefore, children are more prone to getting cold. Once they get cold, it can stimulate intestinal peristalsis and cause the baby to have thin stools and diarrhea.
4. Pay attention to the child's diet. It should be mainly light and, as long as the child does not vomit, try to feed them more. Liquid or semi-liquid foods can be given.
5. Adjust the child's diet and consider fasting for 6-10 hours. If the symptoms improve after fasting, gradually resume a diet. When resuming the diet, start with small amounts, gradually increase the thickness, and do not rush.
6. Breastfeeding is preferred, as breast milk contains a large amount of nutrients that infants need and is most suitable for them. Human milk contains IgA, which can neutralize enterotoxins of Escherichia coli and prevent infection, thereby treating diarrhea.
I hope the above information is helpful. If mothers have any other opinions, feel free to discuss with me.
