Parentpedia

What Experts Say^*

For you, the worst part of having a baby with diarrhea is the worry that something's terribly wrong. For your pediatrician, it's the concern that diarrhea may lead to dehydration. And for your baby, it's all those irritating diaper changes -- and the rash that may develop. Suffice it to say, diarrhea is no fun for anyone.

Is It Really Diarrhea?

The first step is to be sure those poopy diapers really mean diarrhea. Babies' stools are normally quite loose and runny, and -- especially with breastfed babies -- can be very frequent, up to once every feeding or more. So how to tell? Symptoms can include an abrupt change in frequency, blood or mucus in the stool, a fever, and fussiness or lack of a normal appetite.

What's Causing It?

If it's not caused by by a virus or food change, then your pediatrician can investigate to see if it's caused by something less common, such as bacteria or parasites.

Note: If your baby is lethargic, cries without making tears, has not wet a diaper in three or four hours, or her soft spot looks sunken, call your doctor immediately.

What to Do

For the most part, time and some dietary changes will fix your baby right up; consult your pediatrician for instructions.

Here are other tips:

• If you're breastfeeding, don't stop; in fact, you may want to nurse more frequently to boost fluid intake. If diarrhea is persistent and your baby is urinating less frequently than usual, be sure to seek the advice of your health care provider and discuss offering an electrolyte solution (Kao Lectrolyte or Pedialyte) between feedings. If he's eating solids, stick to cereal, applesauce, mashed potatoes, bananas, and carrots; avoid fruit and juice.
• If you're formula-feeding, offer your baby as much as he wants and follow the recommendations above about an electrolyte solution and appropriate solids. If the diarrhea becomes severe, ask your pediatrician about switching to an anti-diarrheal formula.

Safety Notes

• It can't be emphasized enough: Make sure your baby is getting enough liquids when he's suffering from diarrhea. For common forms of diarrhea, dehydration is the biggest concern.
• Some causes of diarrhea can be contagious; wash your hands thoroughly after diaper changes, keep the diaper-changing area clean, and keep other kids away.
• Diarrhea is a double-whammy for diaper rash. First, frequent changes are tough on tender skin. Second, diarrhea contains substances that irritate. Instead of baby wipes, clean your baby's bottom with plain water and use plenty of diaper cream.