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Diarrhoea
Does my baby have diarrhoea
Frequent stools that are liquidy,
smelly, and may contain mucus, often accompanied by fever and/or weight
loss mark the onset of diarrhoea. Note that diarrhoea seldom occurs in
breastfed babies.
What are the causes
of diarrhoea
Diarrhoea could be caused by illness,
teething, sensitivity to a food in the diet, too much fruit juice or other
laxative-type food, gastrointestinal infection, or antibiotic medication.
How should diarrhoea
be treated
No medication should be given to
the baby without first consulting the doctor. In order to replace salts
and fluids lost through diarrhoea, ensure that the baby’s fluid intake
level is high. Home-made salt and sugar solutions are effective in
combating loss of fluids and essential salts. The sooner the baby is fed
the better. The old theory of giving the bowels a rest is not accepted
any more. Starchy foods such as mashed bananas, white rice, potatoes, pasta
or dry white toast are advisable. Small amounts of protein foods like chicken
and cottage cheese are also appropriate.
Do not give sweetened drinks like
colas because they are diuretic and can in fact make the baby lose more
fluids. To prevent irritation of the baby’s bottom, soiled nappies should
be changed as soon as possible.
Note that if the diarrhoea is accompanied
by vomiting, solid feeding is usually not resumed until vomiting has stopped.
Even if the stool returns to normal after two or three days, the doctor
may recommend that you resume the baby’s regular diet, but limit milk and
dairy products for a day or two. If the diarrhoea lasts for more
than two weeks and the baby is having formula milk, the doctor may recommend
a change in formula.
Can diarrhoea be prevented
Yes, to a certain extent. All
people who are in contact with the baby should wash their hands carefully
after handling nappies and going to the lavatory. Care should be taken
that baby food is prepared in a sanitary manner. Fruit juices should be
diluted and their intake should be limited.
What are the possible
complications of diarrhoea
The baby could develop nappy rash.
A more serious complication is dehydration which, if severe, could lead
to coma and even death.
When should I call
the doctor
If your baby has had runny, watery
stools for 24 hours, it is advisable to consult the doctor. If your baby
is vomiting repeatedly; if you suspect that she has eaten spoiled food
or formula; if there is blood in her stools or if she is running a fever,
seek medical help.
How can I tell if my
child is dehydrated
There is cause for concern if the
baby shows signs of dehydration, i.e. decreased urine output, nappies not
as wet as usual, yellow urine; tearless and sunken eyes, a sunken fontanel
dry skin and scant saliva. Even if the baby does not exhibit all these
symptoms of dehydration, you should summon the doctor immediately.
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